Cancer Research UK has announced its Penrith charity shop on Angel Lane is to close as part of plans to close around 190 of its chain of charity shops as it exits the high street.
Retail has played a big role in the charity and its fundraising – delivering over £225m in contribution over the last 10 years – but like many high street retailers, the charity is faced with rising costs, inflationary pressures, and changing consumer habits — including reduced footfall, higher national insurance contributions, and growing competition from online retail.
In response to the changing external and retail landscape, the charity plans to reshape its retail operations that will reduce the size of its high street operations to around 320 shops. This will start with the closing of around 90 shops by May 2026, with up to 100 more by April 2027.
The charity plans to expand a network of out-of-town superstores, with 12 new stores set to open over the next two years but will also close its online marketplace in early 2026, meaning it will no longer sell pre-loved items on external resale platforms.
Michelle Mitchell OBE, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said:
“I am deeply grateful to our dedicated supporters, volunteers and staff for their role and contribution in beating cancer together.
“Without action, we predict many of our shops will become unprofitable. A smaller, high-performing retail operation will mean we will fund more life-saving cancer research and better serve our customers, staff and volunteers.
“This news will be difficult. Our decisions have been taken after serious consideration. We’re committed to supporting everyone affected by these changes, and will provide clear information and support throughout the process.”
The Angel Lane Cancer Research UK shop has already stopped accepting donated items and has a closing down sale underway with the shop expected to close in the next few weeks.
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