Why ICU has set up a Trading Subsidiary

This is a practical way to run our commercial services, things like venues, shops, events and advertising, in line with Charity Commission and HMRC guidance.

Some of these activities, such as our venues and events, directly support our charitable purpose of advancing the educational interests of Imperial students. Others, like certain retail and advertising work, exist purely to generate income. That income is then reinvested into our core services, including clubs and societies, advice, representation and improving our spaces.

Running these non-charitable activities through a trading subsidiary keeps our charitable funds safe, separates commercial risk from our assets and ensures we’re following the rules. Many UK charities, including other Students’ Unions, use the same approach to stay financially healthy while protecting their main mission.

The subsidiary is managed by a board made up of ICU trustees and senior staff, with governance and reporting set up to keep everything transparent and aligned with our values. All profits are given back to the union, so every pound earned goes straight back into supporting our students. From your perspective, nothing will change and you'll get the same great service you always do in our venues.

We’ll continue to publish updates so you can see exactly how our commercial activities work and where the money goes. This change helps keep ICU financially sustainable and able to expand the services and spaces that matter to you.