News

Trading slices for cell phones

July 13, 2011

Toronto-based Pizza Pizza franchises across Canada traded pizza for cell phones, collecting 544 previously used cell phones and handheld devices for the chain's annual Cells for Slices program. Each customer who dropped of an old phone received a free piece of pizza.

"We have a deep-rooted commitment to keeping Canadian families healthy and happy, so it makes sense for us to support this great initiative," said Pat Finelli, chief marketing officer for Pizza Pizza. "Every step goes a long way, no matter how small or large. Our customers really came through to support this worthy cause."

Also, the chain's seventh annual Cells for Slices campaign was held in partnership with Food Banks Canada's Phones for Food program. The program raises funds for Food Banks Canada's programs supporting the food bank community, by diverting used cell phones and wireless devices from landfills. Collected phones can generate up to $5 each.

"Close to 900,000 Canadians access food banks each month, so we really rely on partnerships like this," said Katharine Schmidt, executive director at Food Banks Canada. "With Pizza Pizza's help, we've been able to raise awareness and encourage people to donate to this cause so that no Canadian goes hungry."

Since its launch in 2004, the Cells for Slices campaign has helped divert more than 5,600 previously used cell phones and wireless devices from landfills.