Mazda UK Employees Dressed in Red to Support Japan Relief Efforts

Mazda UK employees in Dartford, Kent, chose to leave their suits and ties at home on Thursday March 31st, instead opting for a red attire to fundraise for the British Red Cross Japan Tsunami Appeal. In addition to that, they organised a charity collection for donations of unwanted clothes, books, toys and household items among the staff.

“In exchange for donating just £2 to the British Red Cross, our employees ditched the daywear and glammed up for Dress Code Red in tribute to the people of Japan who are dealing with the shock of the recent massive earthquake and resulting tsunami causing widespread destruction and suffering,” commented Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director for Mazda Motors UK.

“Some employees kept it simple by wearing a red t-shirt, red braces or a pair of red socks, some went completely overboard and kept it red from head to toe in true Mazda Zoom-Zoom style. What is important is they have helped the Red Cross provide essential services for people in Japan at this difficult time,” Thomson added.

Similar fundraising efforts are taking place at Mazda offices around Europe throughout this month.  At the same time, Mazda Corporation will donate JPY30 million ($355,000) to support recovery and relief efforts in the region. The company will continue to monitor the situation and will provide goods or personnel as required.

In a statement made on March 14th, Mazda Corporation said: “We would like to express our sincere condolences to those affected by the Tohoku Pacific Offshore Earthquake and the earthquake occurring in the northern part of Nagano Prefecture.  We hope that you are able to take care of yourself and your family members, and we pray for the prompt recovery of the health of those affected and the region.”