UMVA has learned that the British Heart Foundation is set to close a number of its stores across the UK, although the exact locations have not yet been disclosed.
The charity will continue to operate its physical and online shops as normal, with staff being notified of the closures before the information is made public. The British Heart Foundation will publish the list of affected stores once employees have been informed.
Dr Charmaine Griffiths, the charity's Chief Executive, expressed her appreciation for the dedication of colleagues and volunteers in the affected stores, stating that 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 closure of these stores comes during a challenging time for retailers, with several high-profile closures announced recently, including fashion outlet Leading Labels and Morrisons' Daily convenience chain of shops. UK accessories chain and multiple store closures were also announced last month after being bought out of administration.
Allison Swaine-Hughes, the group's Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized that the decision to close stores was necessary to ensure a sustainable future for the charity's retail operations, allowing it to continue serving communities across the UK and funding lifesaving research.
The news highlights the tough trading conditions faced by retailers, with Franco Manca and The Real Greek also announcing closures across the UK last month, as did Beefeater and Brewers Faye restaurants.
