Scope, one of the UK’s most prominent disability charities, is undertaking a significant reduction in its retail footprint. By March 2026, the charity plans to shutter 75 of its 138 stores across England and Wales, marking a substantial transformation in its approach to fundraising and retail presence.
Timeline of Closures: A Phased Withdrawal
The decision follows a strategic consultation launched in January 2025, aimed at evaluating store performance and operational sustainability. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the closures:
| Closure Stage | Number of Stores | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Already closed (no notice) | 3 | Early 2025 |
| Closed during consultation | 6 | Jan–Mar 2025 |
| Closed before March 31, 2025 | 18 | Q1 2025 |
| Scheduled to close (May 2025) | 5 | May 2025 |
| Scheduled to close (2025–2026) | 43 | May 2025–Mar 2026 |
| Planned for closure (2026/2027) | 4 | Fiscal year 2026/27 |
| Total | 75 | By end of March 2027 |
Stores That Have Already Closed
Ceased Trading Before March 31, 2025: Amersham, Barking, Bangor, Birkenhead, Bishop Auckland, Castleford, Devizes, Dewsbury, Eastbourne, Haywards Heath, Lewisham, New Milton, Orpington, Parkstone, Scunthorpe, Shirley (Southampton), Skipton, Workington
Closed During Consultation: Bexhill, Hertford, Mitcham, Petersfield, Scarborough, Worthing
Why Scope Is Restructuring Its Retail Model
The charity cites a combination of reduced foot traffic, rising operational costs, and broader retail sector challenges as the primary reasons for the closures. Scope’s Head of Retail, Debbie Boylen, emphasized the need for long-term financial stability, noting that while some stores remain profitable, others are operating at a loss.
Mark Hodgkinson, Scope’s Chief Executive, acknowledged the contributions of staff and volunteers, but admitted that external economic pressures have made high street trading increasingly difficult.
Key financial and operational pressures include:
- Rising energy bills
- Increased business rates and rent
- The April 2025 hike in employer National Insurance contributions (from 13.8% to 15%)
- Continued growth of online shopping
Wider Context: UK Retail Faces Continued Decline
Scope’s downsizing is part of a broader trend in the UK retail sector. According to recent data from the Centre for Retail Research:
- Over 13,000 shops shut down in 2024
- A projected 17,350 closures are expected in 2025
- More than 200,000 retail jobs are at risk this year alone
Charities like Scope are increasingly having to rethink their retail strategies, balancing physical store operations with digital fundraising and other income-generating activities.
What This Means for Scope’s Mission
Despite the significant scale-back, Scope remains committed to supporting disabled people across the UK. The charity has stated that restructuring its retail network will allow it to invest more strategically in higher-performing areas and potentially explore alternative revenue streams.
While some local communities may lose their neighborhood Scope shop, the charity aims to maintain its impact through better use of resources, online operations, and targeted support services.
Conclusion
The closure of 75 Scope stores by 2026 signals more than just a retail strategy shift—it reflects the mounting pressure facing the UK high street. By making tough but necessary decisions, Scope hopes to safeguard its ability to deliver essential services for disabled individuals, even as the retail landscape continues to evolve.
FAQs
Why is Scope closing so many stores?
Scope is closing 75 stores by 2026 due to declining footfall, rising operational costs, and the need to focus on profitable locations to maintain financial health.
Will Scope still support communities after the closures?
Yes, Scope remains dedicated to its mission. The restructuring allows the charity to channel resources into more effective programs and stronger-performing stores.
Are Scope employees losing their jobs?
Scope has confirmed that support will be offered to all affected staff, but some job losses are expected as a result of the closures.
Will Scope open new stores in the future?
The charity hasn’t ruled out future investments in retail or alternative fundraising models. Any expansion would depend on market conditions and performance metrics.
Can I still donate to Scope?
Yes. Donations can still be made through Scope’s remaining stores, online platform, or by direct contribution to support their work.
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