British Heart Foundation shop closures announced
Summary
The British Heart Foundation has revealed the first 87 shops set to shut under plans to close about 150 locations over the next two years. The charity has published the locations earmarked for closure by the end of March 2027 following a review of its retail estate.
Details
The British Heart Foundation currently has 640 stores across the UK, including two in Cheltenham and stores in Gloucester, Cirencester and Tewkesbury, but none of the Gloucestershire stores are on the initial closure list. The 87 closures form the first phase of the British Heart Foundation’s restructuring programme, which was announced last month.
A further 63 stores remain under review and could close by March 2028. The charity said rising operating costs and changing shopping and donation habits had made some stores financially unsustainable, reports Retail Gazette. Its retail net profit fell from £18.8m in 2024 to £3.6m in the year to 31 March 2025.
The proposals also include a reduction in the central teams and functions supporting its retail operation.
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British Heart Foundation chief executive Dr Charmaine Griffiths said: “Like most retailers, we are facing an exceptionally challenging trading environment.” She said the closures were needed to protect retail’s contribution to the charity’s cardiovascular research, while acknowledging the impact on colleagues and volunteers.
The charity said it would support affected employees through the process and offer redeployment where possible. Volunteers are expected to be offered alternative roles at nearby stores or elsewhere in the organisation. Customers will be able to continue shopping and donating while the affected branches remain open.
After they close, donations can still be made through nearby shops, collection points, selected home collection services and the charity’s postal donation service.
What You Need to Know
After they close, donations can still be made through nearby shops, collection points, selected home collection services and the charity’s postal donation service.
Report source: Punchline Gloucester