Scope charity shop in Bridgwater to close March 29

A charity shop in Bridgwater is preparing to close next week. Scope charity shop, located on Binford Place, will shut its doors permanently on March 29. To mark its closing, the shop is offering a 50% discount on all items, including clothes and homeware. The news of the closure has disappointed many locals. Residents expressed their sadness on social media, with some calling it one of the best charity shops in the area. The charity had previously announced plans to close several shops due to decreasing customer traffic and rising costs. Scope's chief executive highlighted that many shops are losing money because of factors like increased online shopping, high rents, and expensive energy costs. The charity aims to shift its focus to its core mission and has plans to close a total of 77 out of 138 shops over the next 18 months. The retail sector in the UK faces challenges, with many stores closing down each year. In 2024, an estimated 13,479 shops shut, and similar trends are expected this year. Many closures are linked to increased costs and competition from online retailers. Retailers are struggling with higher staff wages and costs related to National Insurance contributions. Many shops, including major chains like New Look and Beaverbrooks, are closing due to these financial pressures. The situation raises concerns about job losses and the future of high street shopping.