Business has a special role to play in the development of society, especially in today’s global turmoil. Often, the image of companies is measured by the activities carried out in the field of corporate social responsibility (CSR). The projects that a business organizes for a community can often even lead to bigger initiatives within the country.
“At first glance, it might seem that big business is just about sales, business deals, or taking care of employees. But trust me, it was never enough for the Gulf,” says Nino Jibladze, Gulf Marketing Director, Vice President. “Today, Georgia faces a number of challenges, difficulties that are less likely to occur in other developed countries. That is why from the very first day, Gulf decided to adjust as much as possible to the environment around us; to do things the way our country needs, to help the weaker side solve painful issues. Gulf started with such an approach in 2011 and has been able to implement a number of large and small projects to date. Today, we are summarizing Gulf’s ten years of corporate responsibility.”
Since 2011, Gulf has spent up to 4 million GEL in the CSR direction in Georgia. Here is a look at the details of what Gulf managed to accomplish:
Gulf for Education – Within the framework of the project, Gulf gifted computers and books were to 50 young people across Georgia.
Gulf and Basketball – In order to promote a healthy lifestyle in young people, since 2018, Gulf has been building modern basketball courts throughout Georgia. At present, 3 courts operate in Tbilisi, Gori, and Senaki. A fourth court will be opened in Ozurgeti in the near future. Gulf plans to build a total of 20 basketball courts throughout Georgia. The championship in 3×3 basketball – Gulf Cup – will be held on the mentioned basketball courts.
Gulf for Stray Dogs – Gulf launched the campaign “Shelter and Take Care” in 2019, and in the first phase dog houses were set up to shelter 25 dogs at gas stations, with the company staff taking care of them. As of today, more than 100 dogs live at Gulf gas stations throughout Georgia, the infrastructure has been arranged at the stations, andthe company provides them with food and veterinary services.
Gulf for Doctors – In 2020, Gulf was actively involved in the fight against COVID-19, helping Georgian doctors. 5 tetri from fuel purchased in Gulf was transferred to a special account within which a total of 240,000 GEL was collected and transferred to doctors as a token of gratitude for their service.
Gulf for Kids – The campaign is traditionally planned for Christmas and Easter, as part of which the company helps vulnerable and large families. As part of the campaign, during a specific period of time, 5 tetri of each fuel sold is collected in a special account, after which the amount collected is distributed equally to each family. As part of the project, in addition to cash assistance, the company also often buys household equipment as well as food products for families, as needed.
Travel around Georgia with Gulf – In 2017, Gulf launched the “Travel around Georgia” campaign every summer to promote tourism. As part of the campaign, Gulf is trying to encourage consumers with various activities, promotions, or discounts – encouraging them to travel around Georgia and discover new places.
Take Care of Georgia – Traditionally, at the end of each summer season, Gulf cleans up active tourist areas throughout Georgia.
Gulf for Students – Gulf annually funds tuition for IDP students from the Occupied Territories.
Gulf for Georgian Culture – The company has been a major contributor since 2011 and is actively involved in supporting culture.
Gulf and Autosport – From the day of its entry into Georgia, Gulf has been taking care of the development of motorsport, with the support of various automobile events and sponsorship of auto racers.
– Catharsis Assistance – The company helps socially vulnerable families. In addition, the Gulf helps cultural figures, veteran athletes, and public figures.
“And finally, Gulf Pension, a pension program for those who bring special benefits to the community,” Jibladze notes. “In 2019, Gulf launched a new campaign, under which a special pension program was created for people who bring benefits to the community. These are people who, through their hard work, make the lives of others special.”
Translated by Ketevan Skhirtladze