09:11, 04 April 2025
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
We all love a cheeky duty-free shopping spree!
Well, what do you know about the duty-free billionaire?
Chuck Feeney, the Irish-American entrepreneur, made his fortune through the co-founding of Duty Free Shoppers (DFS) in 1960, revolutionising the retail industry by offering tax-free shopping to international travellers. His innovative business model rapidly expanded, making DFS a global leader in luxury travel retail.
To drop another fact into this packed article, The Atlantic Philanthropies is one of the largest private charitable foundations in the world.
Founded in 1982, this foundation considers itself a ‘service of humanity’ striving to tackle some of the globe's most pressing issues, from healthcare to human rights. With a commitment to creating long-lasting change, its significant investments have focused on improving access to education, advancing social justice, and reducing inequality.
By funding innovative solutions and partnering with various organisations worldwide, The Atlantic Philanthropies has made an indisputable mark on global philanthropic efforts, demonstrating the power of focused, high-impact giving.
However, 3 years before Chuck Feeney’s death, The Atlantic Philanthropies ceased operation in 2020.
Chuck Feeney’s “giving while living” philosophy has redefined modern philanthropy. Believing that wealth should be used to make an immediate, tangible impact.
During his life, Chuck pledged to give away his fortune during his lifetime rather than leaving it to accumulate in a will. His approach has seen billions directed towards causes such as education, healthcare, and human rights, fundamentally changing how wealth is viewed in the context of global philanthropy.
By prioritising the present over the future, Feeney has demonstrated the profound difference one individual can make when they choose to invest in improving lives now, rather than waiting for a posthumous legacy - in turn being able to see the impact of his philanthropy.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
The Charities Aid Foundation (CAF). This is an international organisation that helps individuals and companies donate to charities effectively. It focuses on increasing charitable giving and supporting the wider philanthropic community. Find out more.
The Giving Pledge. This initiative encourages billionaires to pledge at least half of their wealth to philanthropic causes during their lifetime or in their will. Learn more here.
The Open Society Foundations. Founded by George Soros, this foundation promotes human rights, democracy, and justice. It works globally to advance civil rights and foster transparent governance. Support them here.
