P&O Cruises has made a significant decision to donate £10,000 to Teenage Cancer Trust instead of spending on conference merchandise.
- This decision marks the tenth anniversary of P&O Cruises’ partnership with the charity.
- The funds were raised through onboard activities such as Trek the Deck.
- The company aims to raise £1 million for the Teenage Cancer Trust by year-end.
- P&O Cruises is scaling back on branded giveaways at travel agent conferences to support this initiative.
P&O Cruises has announced an impactful shift in its spending strategy by diverting funds traditionally allocated for promotional merchandise at agent conferences to a charitable cause. The cruise line has committed £10,000 to the Teenage Cancer Trust, a move that underscores its ongoing partnership with the charity. This decision comes in light of the tenth anniversary of this collaboration, which will be celebrated in 2025.
The financial contribution was amassed through various activities on board, including the popular ‘Trek the Deck’ initiative and challenges led by the crew. These efforts are part of a broader goal set by P&O Cruises to reach a £1 million donation target for the Teenage Cancer Trust by the end of the year. This target reflects the company’s broader commitment to social responsibility and community support.
Ruth Venn, P&O Cruises’ sales director, highlighted the integral role of travel agent conferences in the company’s strategic framework, particularly in training and engaging with agents. She expressed confidence that their decision to reduce branded merchandise distribution would be respected and supported by agents. ‘We are so proud to be coming into our tenth year of supporting the incredible work undertaken by Teenage Cancer Trust so there couldn’t be a better time for us to redirect funds,’ Venn stated, emphasising the alignment of their business practices with philanthropic values.
P&O Cruises maintains that the value derived from these conferences lies primarily in the exchange of ideas and the strengthening of professional relationships, rather than in the distribution of promotional items. This strategic pivot showcases a forward-thinking approach, aligning business objectives with meaningful community contributions.
Fern West, the senior partnership manager at Teenage Cancer Trust, expressed gratitude for the generous donation, acknowledging the positive impact it will have on young individuals coping with cancer. ‘We are incredibly grateful to P&O Cruises colleagues and guests for their generous donation which will continue to enable us to support teenagers and young adults who have cancer,’ remarked West. Her comments highlight the significant benefits such collaborations can bring.
This announcement follows P&O Cruises’ recent opening of pre-registration for its winter 2026/27 itineraries, signalling ongoing developments within the company and a sustained focus on future growth alongside philanthropic efforts.
P&O Cruises continues to lead by example, aligning its business strategies with altruistic initiatives that benefit both society and industry stakeholders.
