After a fire forced the closure of their beloved store earlier this year, Asifa and Dean, owners of A&D Superchoice in Kingsbury, Tamworth transformed misfortune into generosity.
They have donated over 1.4 tonnes of unused stock to local charities, including FareShare Midlands, to support those most in need. On New Year's Day, a freezer malfunction triggered a fire, causing extensive smoke damage and resulting in the store’s temporary closure while awaiting refurbishment work.
Asifa said “We’re a small village convenience store and many of our customers are elderly.
“It’s been heartbreaking not being able to provide them with essentials like milk and bread. All we can do is to keep delivering the papers - something they look forward to each day.”
Contractors began repairs at A&D Superchoice at the start of March. In the meantime, Asifa and Dean chose to turn their hardship into a positive act, donating a substantial amount of ambient food items such as tins, cereals, drinks and confectionery, that could no longer be sold. Their donation to FareShare Midlands is equivalent to approximately 3,339 meals for people facing food insecurity in the local community.
Laura Spencer, FareShare Midlands’ Head of Commercial, commented “As a Kingsbury resident, I was thrilled when Asifa and Dean reached out to offer their surplus stock to FareShare Midlands.
“It was a shock to learn their store had suffered a fire – A&D Superchoice is such a vital hub for the local community. Their generosity, especially in such challenging circumstances, will make a huge difference to many families struggling with food poverty.”
FareShare Midlands, the region’s largest food redistribution charity, ensures that surplus food reaches frontline charities and community groups across the Midlands. This donation will support food pantries, community cafes and other essential services in Tamworth and beyond.
Asifa explained: “We didn’t want all the stock to go to waste. We wanted local people to gain something from our misfortune.
“By donating to multiple charities, including FareShare Midlands – which we were aware of from our neighbour Laura - we knew the food would reach those who needed it most. It’s heartwarming to know it’s helped so many people. We hope it spreads kindness and love”.
With repairs scheduled to finish this month, Asifa and Dean are eager to reopen the doors of A&D Superchoice to the Kingsbury and wider community in early May. FareShare Midlands is the region’s largest food redistribution charity, tackling inequality, transforming lives and ensuring no good food goes to waste.
They rescue surplus food and redistribute it to 650 local charities and community organisations, feeding 60,000 people every week. They also invest in communities, providing education, training and volunteering opportunities, helping over 700 individuals to date to build a better future.
Together, they are fighting hunger, reducing food waste and creating opportunities across the Midlands.
