Chorley's British Heart Foundation charity shop to close - this is why
The charity says there has been rising operating costs and changing customer habits.
British Heart Foundation (BHF) has announced that it’s Chorley shop is one of 90 set to close within a year.
The charity said that in total, around 150 of its shops and stores will close over the next two financial years, “to ensure our retail network remains commercially sustainable and continues to generate vital funds for lifesaving research.”
The Chorley shop, in Unit 5 Market Walk, is listed within the first tranche proposed for closure by the end of March 2027 - with the remainder by March 2028.
No other central Lancashire shops are known to be affected, but shops in Burnley, Blackpool and Cleveley’s will also close.
BHF said the decision follows a detailed review of their retail estate amid rising operating costs and changing customer habits, which means some of their shops and stores are no longer financially sustainable.
There is also a proposed reduction in the central teams and functions that support the retail operation. But despite this, the charity says it’s overall financial position “remains healthy, with continuing strong performance across fundraising and legacy income”.
Dr Charmaine Griffiths, our Chief Executive, said: “Our shops mean so much to our colleagues, brilliant volunteers and communities across the UK. They are places where people come together to donate, shop and volunteer, helping to make a real difference to lives affected by cardiovascular disease
“We know this will be a difficult time for our dedicated colleagues and volunteers in affected stores and emphasise our deep appreciation and gratitude for all they have done for BHF and the communities they serve.
“Like most retailers, we are facing an exceptionally challenging trading environment. Cardiovascular disease remains one of the UK’s biggest killers and our priority is funding research to save lives. We must take the difficult step to close some of our shops to sustain retail’s important contribution to funding BHF’s groundbreaking research.”
Allison Swaine-Hughes, BHF Chief Commercial Officer, said: “Our success to date has been shaped by the dedication and contribution of our teams across the UK and this has been an incredibly difficult decision following a thorough and careful review. We recognise how challenging this will be especially for colleagues whose roles are affected and we are committed to supporting everyone impacted.
“We must act now to ensure a sustainable future for BHF retail. Change is essential so we can continue to serve communities across the UK and raise the funds that power our lifesaving research. This is about protecting our mission for the long term, even when the decisions in the shorter term are hard.”
Supporters will still be able to shop as normal and donate items while affected shops remain open. After closures take place, the charity will continue to take donations through nearby shops, donation points, home collection services in some areas, and online post to donate options.
They will continue to operate online retail channels, including eBay and the BHF website.
You can find the full list of shops that will be closing here.