by kerryd on December 14, 2009
The moment where we have to step up to the plate and put our money where our mouth, has been set. February 20th (V-Day), from 10:00 am – 3:00pm, Villa Market (in Nichada Thani) will launch its campaign (V-CARE) to stop using plastic shopping bags in its Nichada Thani store. This store alone gives out 500,000 bags a year and this will finally come to an end as they switch to selling reusable cloth bags. We hope this will be the first step to many stores doing the same, but that success really depends on your commitment to this day.
My commitment to Villa in order for them to consider this idea of banning plastic bags was to gather enough customer support to make them realize people want this. Villa wanted to do this, but were very concerned with customer backlash. I convinced them it would be just the opposite and using the Carrotmob model, we would show up in mass to support this cause. So this is where I need YOU… ALL of YOU! I need to ensure that we have a strong commitment from at least 1000 people to show up on V-Day Feb. 20th at Villa to shop. That’s it really. Just show up and buy your groceries. By doing this you are showing support. I will invite all kinds of media to attend so the more people attending, the more likely the media will give its support and the easier it will be to get more businesses to follow.
We always tell businesses that actions speak louder than words. Well, now I am saying that to you. This event could be the start of a growing movement where consumers use their power to make change. Put your words into action and join us on Feb. 20th. Invite friends to attend as well.
I am currently planning the event with Villa to come up with various ideas on the day. The ideas are not set yet, but so far this is what I have suggested. Feel free to suggest more:
– Receiving points for bringing your own cloth bag.
– Purchase of ‘__’ baht and receive a free cloth bag.
– Prize (maybe a grocery voucher) for person traveling the furthest to support this cause. (yes, I know it is not eco friendly to travel so far for groceries, but in this 1 time case it is actually needed; you will probably be interviewed on TV too).
– Best Carrotmob costume
– Possibly live bands playing in the parking lot
– Any other ideas you have?
Sign up on Facebook Events if attending. If you don’t have a Facebook account, just leave a message here if you are coming. I need accurate numbers for the day.
Where is Villa in Nichada Thani? It is just to the left of International School Bangkok (ISB). Follow this map to ISB and just turn left, you won’t miss it. It is also written in Thai and English.