A Kent hospice charity has become the first in the UK to open a shop trading exclusively in new, unworn clothes.
New With Tags Tankerton (NWT@Tankerton), located in the neighbourhood of the same name in Whitstable, promises to offer “a unique twist” on charity shopping, with every item of clothing on offer being both unworn and new, with their retail tags still on to prove it.
The charity shop is run by Pilgrims Hospices, which provides end-of-life care for patients and families across east Kent and already has 31 shops across the region.
The new clothes on offer at its latest outlet range from high-street names to luxury and designer brands, which are donated by the general public and will reportedly be offered at “a fraction of the [retail] price”.
Karen Hills, manager of the new shop, said the charity was “so excited to welcome shoppers” to its venture.
“It’s a unique concept that brings incredible value to our customers while supporting the vital work of Pilgrims Hospices,” she said. “Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping party outfit, a thoughtful gift, or a wardrobe refresh, NWT@Tankerton has something for everyone.”
Fraught time for charity retailers
Pilgrims Hospices’ launch comes at a difficult time for many charity shops.
Recent research by the Charity Retail Association found that more than one-third of charity retailers will be forced to cut paid staff, reduce their hours, or both, because of the employer national insurance contributions (NICs) rise announced recently by chancellor Rachel Reeves.
The increase is forecast to cost a typical charity shop around £1,000 per year.
Meanwhile, Civil Society’s Charity Shops Survey 2024 found that a number of UK charity shops had seen their profits drop due to sustained higher expenditure levels.
