A new charity megastore, thought to be one of the largest in the country, has opened its doors at a busy Telford shopping destination. Located in a 19,000 sq ft (1,765 sq m) unit that was once home to Wilko, the space at the Telford Centre had remained vacant since October 2023.
Now, the British Heart Foundation has transformed the unit into a vibrant home and fashion store, offering an impressive mix of new and pre-loved items. The new store is already making a significant impact, thanks to its extensive fashion department, which is touted as the largest in the country.
Branch manager Vinny Ferrer shared his excitement about the store’s unique appeal, stating, “This store is special. It’s not just the location, it’s a place where customers can purchase both brand-new and pre-loved goods. Our fashion section is the biggest in the UK, attracting shoppers seeking the ‘thrill of a find’.”
Ferrer also noted that the store’s popularity is growing, with customers traveling long distances to shop there. “People are coming from far and wide because of the variety of collections we offer, and our stock is constantly growing.”
The Telford Centre had experienced empty units in recent years, including the closure of Debenhams in 2021, which was replaced by a Flip Out trampoline park. Despite these challenges, the opening of the British Heart Foundation store is seen as a positive step in revitalizing the shopping center.
Telford Centre manager Glynn Morrow acknowledged that charity shops have become more popular due to factors like the cost of living crisis and rising bills. He also noted that the perception of charity shops has changed. “The store looks fantastic, almost like a high-end furniture shop. It’s in a great location with excellent foot traffic, and it’s definitely attracting more customers,” said Morrow.
Ferrer added that the store’s success is also tied to a shift in attitudes toward secondhand goods. “We don’t call it ‘secondhand’ – we call it upcycling. What might be new to someone else could be just what someone else is looking for.”
The opening of this new British Heart Foundation megastore is seen as a key moment for the Telford Centre, helping to inject new life into the shopping area while also supporting a charitable cause.
Source: BBC News
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