Zest, part of the P&A Group, is to raise money for MS Society Cymru and North Clwyd Animal Rescue (NCAR) in a joint commitment to both charities in 2025, Zest’s 20th anniversary and P&A’s 40th.

The initiative will see Zest employees participating in various fundraising activities throughout the year.  Events will include marathons and half marathons, the MBNA Chester 10K, a walking steps challenge, cycling, the Born Survivor authentic military obstacle course, the Salford Quays Bungee Jump, and a Welsh Three Peaks Challenge, not to mention baking and ‘month without’ challenges and a Santa Dash.

Multiple Sclerosis Society Cymru raises awareness of MS and supports those affected by the disease in Wales.  NCAR is one of the largest animal rescue charities in North Wales and the North West, specialising in rescuing and rehoming domestic pets and caring for over 1500 animals per year. 

Andrew Baker, Managing Director of Zest said: “We are delighted to have chosen MS Cymru and NCAR as our charities of the year for 2025.  This is a fantastic opportunity for our team to come together to not only raise funds, but also raise awareness.  We’ll be taking on fun challenges, as well as promoting healthy exercise and supporting truly important causes. With one of our team members directly affected by MS, this cause is especially personal, and we’re determined to make a meaningful impact for both charities.

“For Zest, this is also about fostering a community of support, understanding, and compassion. We firmly believe that spending time with others, immersing ourselves in the great outdoors, and engaging in activities that are not just hobbies but essential tools in an arsenal dedicated to improving both physical and mental health.”

Shelley Elgin, Country Director for Wales for MS Society Cymru, commented: "We are thrilled to be chosen as Zest’s Charity of the Year for 2025. This partnership will help us continue providing essential support to people living with MS across Wales. The funds raised will make a real difference to our community and help us work towards our goal of stopping MS."

Nicky Owen from NCAR added: “At NCAR we are so grateful that we are one of Zest’s chosen charities for 2025. Zest’s involvement will make a huge difference to the animals we re-home. And we are looking forward to welcoming employees from Zest to come along and share some volunteer time with us in 2025, in pursuit of our mutual wellbeing goals.”

The charitable partnerships officially launched on Thursday, 16th January, at the Zest main center and head office in Saltney North Wales. The initial fundraising target has been set at a total of £20,000.

Over the last 15 years, Zest employees, alongside colleagues in the P&A Group have donated £175,000 to a variety of charities.  These include Dementia UK, British Heart Foundation, Macmillan Cancer Support, Hope House, and Tŷ Gobaith Children’s Hospices, Cancer Research UK, Action for Children, Alzheimer’s Society, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Meningitis Now, and MIND.

 Zest was established in 2005 to bring high quality, sustainable timber garden products to garden centres, online retailers, builders’ merchants, and major purchasing groups across the UK.  For further information about Zest’s GYO, decorative and furniture products, visit www.zestoutdoorliving.co.uk.