Building a community / The magic of this idea is its simplicity; where other brands often miss the mark, chasing purpose with overwrought, inauthentic initiatives, Lessons for Good drives tangible impact that feels relevant. Not only does it make sense in terms of redirecting existing resources, it creates a community around the brand out of its existing customers, by offering them an opportunity to become volunteers, while equipping them with practical skills. The initiative also plays on the cultural significance of family and community in Italy, bringing volunteers together to build – both figuratively and literally – community spaces. The relatively small scale of Lessons for Good makes sense for the retailer’s presence in Italy, where its stores are located on the outskirts of towns and cities. It positions Leroy Merlin as a brand that improves the lives of its customers beyond the physical home improvements it caters to – an example of relevant, impactful and tangible brand outreach.
Repurpose for good / Lessons for Good ticks two boxes that are close to the modern consumer’s heart: waste reduction, and corporate social responsibility. Based on the simple insight that materials were being thrown away that could be put to better use, the campaign was done in the spirit of DIY, with a nod to the environment: normal people pitching in to affect real change. As well has creating an emotional legacy by improving the living conditions of some of the most vulnerable members of society (which could only have been intensified by the fact that the campaign occurred right before the Christmas period) Leroy Merlin was able to physically lodge its brand and products into new spaces, arguably ensuring a degree of longevity beyond the day-long volunteering marathon.
