Domino’s Pizza has raised £175,000, from one million separate donations, for its main charity, Special Olympics Great Britain through the Pennies Foundation microdonation scheme.

Pennies launched in November 2010 and Domino’s was the first retailer to sign up to the scheme. Money is raised by customers rounding up their order to the nearest pound when paying by card, with 1p being the most common donation amount from Domino’s customers.  

Karen Wallin, chief executive of Special Olympics Great Britain said: “Our heartfelt thanks go to everyone who has donated. The money will go towards many local and national projects and assist our athletes in their own personal development.”

The charity supports young athletes with learning disabilities. New projects coming up in the next two years include a London 2012 legacy project, and a bespoke activity programme for young people with profound impairments.

Three quarters of the amount donated by customers goes to the retailer’s chosen charity and the remaining 25 per cent goes to charities nominated by Pennies, including; Shelter, Together for Short Lives and NSPCC.

So far Pennies has raised almost £400,000 for 27 charities. Other retailers signed up to the scheme include Travelodge, the Entertainer, and Zizzi restaurants. Pennies advised a number of other retailers are poised to start raising money in 2012.