Currys makes digital inclusion move as it donates proportion of refurbished tech online sales to DPA

Currys reports that, starting this month, a proportion of every online sale of refurbished tech, across its mobile and computing categories, will go towards those living in digital poverty.   

The retailer will be donating £1 of every refurbished phone or laptop sale online to the Digital Poverty Alliance (DPA). This comes following the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology's newly published Digital Inclusion Action Plan, backed by Currys.

As one of the Digital Poverty Alliance’s founding partners, Currys works with the DPA through its Tech4Families scheme, which helps vulnerable families in need by providing access to digital technology. So far, over 1,800 families have been provided a laptop via the initiative, thanks to Currys customers.

"We are thrilled to see the convergence of two of our strategic priorities: promoting the use of refurbished technology and raising funds to help tackle digital poverty. By supporting this cause, we are giving tech a longer life and also ensuring that more families have access to the tech they need. I am incredibly proud of the progress we have made and look forward to seeing the positive impact this initiative will have," says Paula Coughlan, Chief People, Communications and Sustainability Officer at Currys.

“We are so grateful for Currys' support with this new proposition. The funds raised will make a significant difference in our efforts to provide digital access to those who need it most. This partnership is a perfect example of how businesses can help bridge the digital divide whilst also promoting sustainability," says Elizabeth Anderson, CEO at the Digital Poverty Alliance. 

“Digital services are an integral part of life in modern Britain and should be easily accessible to all, whether that is speaking to a GP remotely or finding the best value insurance,” says Sir Chris Bryant, Telecoms Minister.

“Only last month, we set out our Digital Inclusion Action Plan to ensure we take everyone along on the digital revolution we are undergoing. Currys’ approach to tackling digital poverty is a fantastic example of how industry can help us deliver on this mission - giving everyone the access, confidence, and skills to thrive in modern Britain.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Digital inclusion will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which will open for entries in March, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.