The British Heart Foundation (BHF) announced on June 5, 2026, that it will close approximately 150 retail stores across the United Kingdom over the next two years.
The decision follows a detailed review of the charity's retail network, which it says is no longer financially sustainable in the current economic climate.
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A BHF spokesman stated that the retail network requires adjustments to maintain long-term viability. The charity will publish specific location details on its website after informing affected staff.
"Some of our shops and stores are no longer financially sustainable," the spokesman said.
The closures will be phased: around 90 stores are expected to shut by the end of March 2027, with the remainder closing by March 2028.
Support teams will also be reduced.
Restructuring to Protect Research Funding
The restructuring aims to safeguard the charity's funding for medical research. Cardiovascular disease causes about one death every three minutes in the UK, according to the BHF.
"The changes are designed to ensure our retail network remains strong and sustainable, contributing vital funds to power research into cardiovascular disease," the spokesman added.
Despite the store reductions, the BHF will maintain a significant physical and digital presence.
It plans to continue operating its online store and eBay platform to adapt to changing donor and shopper behaviors.
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Dr. Charmaine Griffiths, Chief Executive of the BHF, acknowledged the impact on staff and volunteers.
"Our shops mean so much to our colleagues, brilliant volunteers and communities across the UK," she said.
"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," Dr. Griffiths added.
She noted that the challenging trading environment forced the organization to prioritize life-saving research.
"Cardiovascular disease remains one of the UK's biggest killers and our priority is funding research to save lives," she said.
Allison Swaine-Hughes, Chief Commercial Officer, said the decision was difficult but necessary. "We must act now to ensure a sustainable future for BHF retail.
Change is essential so we can continue to serve communities across the UK and raise the funds that power our lifesaving research," she said.
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During and after the transition, supporters can continue to use open shops and alternative donation methods, including post-to-donate options, home collections, and localized donation points.
