The British Heart Foundation (BHF) has confirmed the permanent closure of 87 stores across the UK, including three in Scotland, as part of a major restructuring of its retail estate. The closures come after the charity announced in June 2026 that it planned to shut around 150 shops over the next two years, citing rising operational costs and shifting consumer behaviour.
Scottish Stores Affected
Three Scottish branches are among the first wave of closures: two in Dumfries (60 High Street and the Home Store at Loreburne Shopping Centre) and one in Elgin (165 High Street). These stores will shut permanently in the coming months, with the first round of closures expected to be completed by March 2027. The full 150 closures are scheduled to be finished by March 2028.
The BHF operates more than 600 charity shops across Britain. The decision to downsize follows a review that found some stores were no longer financially sustainable. According to the charity, the retail environment has become “exceptionally challenging,” with rising rents, utility costs, and changing shopping habits all contributing to the closures.
Impact on Staff and Volunteers
Dr Charmaine Griffiths, chief executive of the British Heart Foundation, said: “Our shops mean so much to our colleagues, brilliant volunteers and communities across the UK. Like most retailers, we are facing an exceptionally challenging trading environment.” She added that the charity is grateful for all staff and volunteers affected and assured them that support will be provided throughout the process.
Employees impacted by the closures are expected to be offered redeployment opportunities where possible. Volunteers will be offered roles in alternative stores or elsewhere within the charity.
Charity’s Research Mission
Founded in 1961 by a group of medical professionals concerned about rising death rates from cardiovascular disease, the British Heart Foundation has become one of the UK’s most recognisable charities. It is the largest independent funder of heart and circulatory disease research in the country, investing £50 million annually in research.
Full List of 87 Store Closures
The full list of 87 British Heart Foundation closures includes stores in England, Scotland, and Wales. Notable locations include Armley, Aberdare, Burnley, Bath, Brighton, Blackpool, Camden, Durham, Eastbourne, Fulham, Hull, Keighley, Plymouth, Swansea, and many more. The complete list is available on the British Heart Foundation website.
