Big changes are coming to the high street as Cancer Research UK is set to close 190 stores across the UK. Blaming rising costs and shifting shopping habits, this iconic charity will see the first wave of 90 closures by the end of this month, with the rest set to shut down by April 2027. Several of these closures will impact shops in Wales.
The charity pointed to the pressures from increasing operational costs and inflation, alongside fewer shoppers on high streets and the rise of online resale platforms. Earlier this year, it also closed its online marketplace, stopping sales of pre-owned items on external websites.
Despite these challenges, Cancer Research UK remains committed to its mission. The charity will continue to operate 320 higher-performing shops nationwide and plans to expand with 12 new out-of-town superstores. This restructuring is expected to boost funding for scientific research by an additional £12.4 million over five years.
Michelle Mitchell, the charity’s chief executive, expressed understanding of the impact on staff, volunteers, and local communities. She stated, “Without action, we predict many of our shops will become unprofitable. A smaller, high-performing retail operation will mean we will fund more life-saving cancer research and better serve our customers, staff, and volunteers.”
Even with these store closures, Cancer Research UK is determined to maintain a strong presence on the high street, ensuring its shops remain integral to community engagement, fundraising, and support for its mission.
Stay tuned to see which stores close near you and keep supporting their incredible work in funding life-saving cancer research.