AGE CONCERN - CHARITY RETAIL

Over the last decade, retailing has shifted with increasing amounts of consumers now taking a more ethical and sustainable approach to their shopping habits. They are becoming more aware of the environmental and social impact of their purchases, leading to them increasingly seeking out options that are both ethical and sustainable.

From those on modest incomes who are simply seeking out a bargain to those who are struggling financially, charity shops offer a wide variety of affordable goods to meet all budgets. Ranging from basic brands to top end designer, from clothing to essential household items, the variety of choice available allows quality item purchasing to all types of customer.

Charity shops create both paid employment and volunteering opportunities in the local area, ensuring the smooth running of the shops and sorting of donations. This can help to reduce unemployment and increase economic activity, both being especially important during times of economic hardship and social isolation.

The fast fashion industry is one of the largest industries in the world and is the second largest pollutant on the planet. Donating and buying pre-loved clothing and other items is an incredibly effective way to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, extending the life of clothing and other useable items, whilst helping raise vital funds for charitable causes.

Age Concern Central Lancashire has been flying the flag for ethical charity retailing for the past four decades, diverting over 100 tonnes of unwanted items such as clothing, shoes, toys, books, bric-a-brac and electrical goods away from landfill sites, year after year. Having recently launched its ‘Second Look’ concept which is designer focused, Age Concern’s retailing is adapting its offer and reacting to changes in customer needs.

Bel Fry, Director of Retail at Age Concern Central Lancashire said;

‘We are extremely proud of our charity retail heritage and have been trading on the high streets of Lancashire since 1981. Our 9 shops are based in Preston (Market Street and Cannon street), Leyland, Bamber Bridge, Chorley (Central, Buckshaw Village & Calder Park), Fulwood and Cleveleys.

As charity shopping is becoming more appealing to all age groups, we wanted to highlight the range and quality of our top –high street and designer donated items by having a dedicated section within the shops and to give the range its own identity. From this idea the concept of ‘Second Look’ was born.

Since launching the concept in February of this year we have seen a huge uptake in the sales of both ladies and gents wear, shoes and accessories.We are extremely fortunate to have the support of local people who shop with us and donate their pre-loved items to our shops, some of which are brand new with tags and some of which are high quality designer brands, allowing us to continue the excellent work that we do within the elderly community in Lancashire.We very much value your support.”

As well as selling from our 9 brick and mortar shops, we also operate a stand lone e-commerce function, selling to all over the world, from a variety of online platforms such as Depop(AgeConcernCL), EBay- (Central Lancashire Age Concern Ltd) and Discogs -(AgeConcernCL). All 3 options allow 24/7 shopping until your heart’s content from the comfort of your home!

Volunteering feels good!

Volunteering in a charity retail shop is a great way to give back to your community and make a difference to the lives of those in need. You can gain valuable experience in customer service and retail operations, as well as develop relationships with other volunteers and staff. Additionally volunteering can help to build your sense of self-worth and value, as you are contributing your time and energy to help support a cause that you believe in.

Learn how to create eye-catching displays, sort through pre-loved items and prepare stock for sale or serve customers; there are roles for everyone, supporting a team of creative staff. Learn new skills, make new friends whilst helping improve the quality of life for older people in our communities.

Age Concern has a vibrant and passionate volunteer community. Volunteers help us in our shops, our services as well as being part of our Board of Trustees, helping to shape the future of the charity. If you’d like to volunteer with us please get in touch – we’d love to hear from you! Join us and make a difference! Email your interest to volunteering@ageconcerncentrallancashire.org.uk

Age Concern Central Lancashire opened its ‘Occasions’ shop located at 30 Cannon Street in Preston city centre in September 2022. This is the ninth shop to be added to our portfolio of successful and popular charity shopping destinations in Lancashire. The shop specialises in the sale of preloved occasional wear including bridal, evening, prom, party and vintage wear, offering customers a sustainable and more cost effective place to purchase those special outfits. From items that are brand new with tags to items with minimal signs of wear, the majority of our stock are one off pieces, enabling you wear them as they are, customise or upcycle to really make you stand out from the crowd.

With the cost of living increasing, brides-to-be can consider a more cost-effective and sustainable option for their wedding dress and buy preloved. We have available a wide range of beautiful styles in store including some absolute classic designs from years gone by. Buying pre-loved will have a huge impact on the purse strings whilst generating much-needed income for the charity

Age Concern Occasions is open Tuesday to Friday 10am -4pm Saturday 9.30am to 5pm.

Tel 01772 552875

In November 2020 Age Concern scooped the ‘Most Creative use of Lockdown’ Award at the prestigious Charity Retail Awards 2020 with the judges stating;