| MBP275 October 2005 Contents The business ideaCustomers and market trends Key start up considerations Sources of further information A charity shop sells second-hand and new products to raise funds for a particular charitable organisation. Goods are donated to the shop and may need repairing or cleaning prior to being offered for sale. Second-hand goods stocked may include clothing, books, furniture and household equipment. Many charity shops also offer a branded line of gift cards, chocolates, pens and other small items that can be purchased new. Charity shops are often situated on local high streets to give maximum exposure to the charity and the products on offer. They are staffed almost entirely by volunteers and profits from sales in the shop are invested in the charity.
The immediate priority will be to find suitable premises, with space to display and store goods. You may also wish to provide a space for sorting and pricing new stock. It is essential to locate this type of store in a prime location to attract passing trade. It may be worthwhile gaining some retail training. The Retail Academy (www.retailacademy.org) runs an online Certificate in Retail Principles covering visual merchandising, security, product planning and legislation. Alternatively, City and Guilds (www.city-and-guilds.co.uk) runs target awards and certificates in retail principles. Sources
of further information Association of Charity Shops Institute for Volunteering Research Charity Commission |
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This information is meant as a starting point only. Whilst all reasonable efforts have been made, the publisher makes no warranties that the information is accurate and up-to-date and will not be responsible for any errors or omissions in the information nor any consequences of any errors or omissions. Professional advice should be sought where appropriate. © 2005 Cobweb Information Ltd |
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