The British Heart Foundation (BHF) has confirmed that its store in Hawick, Scotland, will be the first of 150 closures, shutting its doors this month. The charity announced in June that it would close 150 of its 640 stores over a two-year period, citing rising operational costs and changing consumer habits.
Stores Identified for Closure
Alongside Hawick, branches in Rhyl High Street and Bangor have been confirmed as locations set to close within the next two years. The Worksop branch is also earmarked for closure, with 87 stores having received notice of their closure before the next financial year, according to The Worksop Guardian.
Under the proposed plans, 90 branches are expected to close by March next year, with the remaining shops shutting by March 2028.
CEO Statement on Challenging Environment
British Heart Foundation chief executive Dr Charmaine Griffiths 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."
Support for Employees and Volunteers
Employees impacted by the closures will be supported by the foundation during the period leading up to the stores shutting, with redeployment opportunities where possible. Volunteers at the stores are expected to be offered other roles in nearby stores or elsewhere in the charity.
