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Charity Shops Cut Staff, Close 240 Stores as Rates Spike

6/13/2026

45 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Rising business rates, up 176% since 2024, force small charity retailers like Alongside to cut staff.
The British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research UK plan to close about 240 shops.
Higher wage costs and energy bills add financial strain to charity shops, says retail expert Susannah Streeter.
Charities respond by cutting waste, adding clearance rails and recruiting volunteers to mend and up-cycle garments.

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Story summary

Rising business rates, up 176% since 2024, force small charity retailers like Alongside to cut staff.
The British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research UK plan to close about 240 shops.
Higher wage costs and energy bills add financial strain to charity shops, says retail expert Susannah Streeter.
Charities respond by cutting waste, adding clearance rails and recruiting volunteers to mend and up-cycle garments.