Blow to UK High Street as Major Charity Chain Closes Three Stores Without Warning and Confirms 47 More Shutdowns

In a new setback for the British high street, disability charity Scope has announced plans to close a total of 74 charity shops across England and Wales by March 2026. The organization cites declining footfall, rising operational costs, and changing retail patterns as key reasons for the widespread closures.

So far, three of Scope’s shops have already closed without notice, while six others shut during the consultation process. An additional 18 stores ceased trading before the end of March 2025, with five more expected to close by May. The remaining 43 shops will shut gradually between now and March 2026.

Four further closures are planned for the 2026–27 financial year, bringing the total number of shop closures to 75, effectively downsizing Scope’s retail presence by over half.

Strategy Shift as Charity Prioritizes Stronger Locations

Scope initially proposed closing 77 shops during a consultation launched in January. Now, with 138 stores originally operating, the charity is cutting back to focus on higher-performing locations that continue to raise significant funds for disability support services.

Debbie Boylen, Head of Retail at Scope, emphasized that the decision was not taken lightly. “Some of our shops still perform well, but many others are operating at a loss,” she said. “These tough decisions are necessary to maintain the long-term financial health of the charity.”

Employees at affected locations are being supported through the transition process, Scope confirmed.

High Street Pressures Escalate in 2025

Scope’s retail contraction is just one part of a wider crisis facing UK high streets. The retail landscape continues to be reshaped by:

• Soaring energy bills

• Rising rent and business rates

• Increased employer National Insurance contributions (up from 13.8% to 15% in April)

• The growing dominance of online shopping

According to the Centre for Retail Research, over 13,000 UK stores closed in 2024, with projections pointing to 17,350 closures in 2025 and an estimated 200,000 job losses.

Mark Hodgkinson, Scope’s Chief Executive, acknowledged the challenges, saying, “Our staff, volunteers, and supporters have made incredible contributions, but the retail climate is becoming increasingly difficult.”

Full List of Scope Shops Closed Before March 31, 2025

• Amersham

• Barking

• Bangor

• Birkenhead

• Bishop Auckland

• Castleford

• Devizes

• Dewsbury

• Eastbourne

• Haywards Heath

• Lewisham

• New Milton

• Orpington

• Parkstone

• Scunthorpe

• Shirley (Southampton)

• Skipton

• Workington

Shops Closed During the Consultation Period

• Bexhill

• Hertford

• Mitcham

• Petersfield

• Scarborough

• Worthing

Future of Scope’s Retail Model

While Scope is scaling back its brick-and-mortar footprint, it has not ruled out investing in alternative revenue streams or revamping its existing retail strategy. The goal remains the same: to continue delivering essential services and support for disabled people across the UK.

Boylen reiterated that the closures are aimed at preserving resources for the most effective parts of their operations. “This move ensures we can still fulfill our mission—just with a more focused retail network.”

FAQs

Why is Scope closing so many charity shops?

Scope is restructuring its retail operations due to declining customer numbers, high operating costs, and the ongoing shift to online shopping.

How many Scope shops are closing in total?

A total of 75 shops will close by the 2026/27 financial year, reducing Scope’s retail network significantly.

Will employees be laid off from closing stores?

Scope has confirmed that staff at affected locations will be offered support and assistance throughout the closure process.

What does this mean for the UK high street?

This is another indicator of the challenges faced by physical retailers in the UK, with thousands of stores expected to shut in 2025 alone.

Is Scope planning to invest in other income sources?

Yes, the charity has suggested it may explore other revenue options or adjust its retail model to remain sustainable.

Click here to know more.​