Cancer Research UK has announced the closure of two of its shops in Wirral as part of a significant national restructuring of its retail operations. The stores located on Borough Pavement in Birkenhead and Hoylake Road in Moreton are among nearly 200 shops set to close across the country by 2027.
The charity stated the decision is a response to rising operational costs, inflation, and significant shifts in consumer shopping habits, including reduced high street footfall and the rise of online resale platforms. The new strategy aims to secure the long-term financial stability of its retail arm to maximize funding for life-saving cancer research.
Key Takeaways
- Two Wirral shops in Birkenhead and Moreton have been identified for closure.
- The closures are part of a UK-wide plan to shut up to 190 stores by April 2027.
- Cancer Research UK will now focus on a network of 320 high-performing high street shops.
- The plan includes opening 12 new, larger out-of-town superstores to meet consumer demand.
- The restructure is projected to increase the charity's financial contribution to research by £12.4 million over the next five years.
National Strategy Impacts Local Stores
The closures in Birkenhead and Moreton are a direct result of a comprehensive strategic review undertaken by Cancer Research UK. The charity has outlined a phased plan that will see up to 90 of its shops close by May 2026, with an additional 100 stores scheduled for closure by April 2027.
This move will reshape the charity's physical retail presence, reducing its total number of stores but concentrating efforts on a core group of 320 high-performing shops. The aim is to create a more resilient and profitable retail network capable of consistently funding vital research.
Economic Pressures on High Street Charities
Charity shops across the UK are facing a challenging economic environment. Factors such as rising energy bills, increased staff costs due to National Insurance contributions, and intense competition from online marketplaces have put significant pressure on their financial viability. Many organisations are now re-evaluating their high street presence to ensure they can continue their core missions effectively.
Reasons Behind the Restructure
Cancer Research UK has cited several economic factors driving its decision to restructure. In a statement, the charity highlighted the combined impact of rising costs, inflationary pressures, and evolving consumer behaviour as key challenges.
The organisation noted a decline in footfall on many high streets, a trend that has affected retailers nationwide. Furthermore, the increasing popularity of online resale platforms has created new competition for second-hand goods, altering the landscape in which charity shops operate.
"Like many high street retailers, we’re facing rising costs and changing shopping habits. To continue funding life-saving research at the scale that’s needed, we need to change," said Julie Byard, director of trading at Cancer Research UK.
Byard emphasised that without proactive changes, many of the charity's shops would likely become financially unsustainable within the next five years. The decision is intended to safeguard the organisation's future and its ability to support scientific research.
A New Focus on Superstores and High-Performing Shops
While reducing its overall number of stores, Cancer Research UK is simultaneously investing in a new retail format. The charity plans to grow its network of out-of-town superstores, with 12 new locations set to open.
These larger-format stores are designed to cater to modern shopping preferences, offering more space and a wider variety of items. This strategy targets the growing demand for value-focused shopping experiences in more accessible, spacious locations.
The charity's remaining 320 high street shops will be selected based on their performance and potential for long-term profitability. This focused approach is expected to generate a more stable income stream for the organisation's research commitments.
Financial Projections and Research Investment
Cancer Research UK anticipates that this strategic overhaul will result in a significant financial uplift. The charity projects an increase in its net financial contribution of approximately £12.4 million over the next five years. This additional funding will be directed straight into its research programmes. In the 2024/25 period, the charity spent £403 million on new and ongoing research.
As part of its digital strategy shift, the charity will also close its own online marketplace in early 2026. This means it will no longer sell pre-loved items directly on reselling platforms, streamlining its operations further.
Supporting Staff and Volunteers
The leadership at Cancer Research UK has acknowledged the difficult nature of the news for those affected by the closures. Both staff and volunteers at the Birkenhead and Moreton shops have been recognised for their contributions over the years.
Julie Byard expressed deep gratitude on behalf of the charity.
"We are deeply grateful to our staff, volunteers and customers who have supported the Birkenhead and Moreton shops over the years. Their dedication and generosity have helped fund vital cancer research and made a real difference to people affected by cancer."
She added, "The decision is not a reflection of the outstanding work of our local teams. It’s a necessary step to ensure Cancer Research UK remains resilient and focused on the future. We are working closely with everyone impacted and will support them through this change."
Michelle Mitchell OBE, the chief executive of Cancer Research UK, echoed these sentiments, confirming that the organisation is committed to providing clear information and support to all affected individuals throughout the transition period.