The british heart foundation plans to permanently close 150 shops across the United Kingdom over the coming two financial years. About 90 shops are due to shut by the end of March 2027, with the remaining 60 locations set to close by March 2028.
Dr Charmaine Griffiths said the closures would be emotionally difficult and described trading conditions as "exceptionally challenging". She said the charity must keep its focus on sustaining its life-saving research programmes while managing shops that have become financially unviable.
British Heart Foundation shops
The charity currently runs 640 stores nationwide. It said escalating operational expenses and evolving shopping patterns among customers were driving the decision, and that it will keep a substantial presence on high streets while developing its website and eBay platform.
The move also includes a reduction in central support teams and functions that underpin the retail operation. The charity said its broader financial health remains robust, pointing to continued strong performance in fundraising activities and legacy income streams.
Dr Charmaine Griffiths
Griffiths said, "Our shops mean so much to our colleagues, brilliant volunteers and communities across the UK." She added: "They are places where people come together to donate, shop and volunteer, helping to make a real difference to lives affected by cardiovascular disease."
The charity has not yet disclosed which locations are earmarked for closure. It said it will release the names only after affected staff members have been personally informed of the proposals, leaving shop teams and regular customers waiting for the local detail that will determine which branches stay open.
Barnardo's closures
The British Heart Foundation announcement comes after Barnardo's closed several branches of its own. Barnardo's shut its Kirkham store in Lancashire on 15 May, closed its Chippenham branch on May 2 and ceased trading at its Bishop's Stortford location on 24 May.
Mark Gregory, Barnardo's Trading Company managing director, said there are "huge challenges for the UK high street" including heightened operating costs and reduced consumer spending linked to the cost-of-living crisis. For customers and volunteers, the immediate issue is whether their local shop is among the 150 set to go, and the answer will only come after staff are told first.
