Understanding Retail Within The Charity Sector

Running a charity shop isn’t the same as regular retail and the fundamental differences can be quite a shock for those entering for the first time. They are a fantastic way of bringing support to charities as well as recycling and upcycling goods that may have otherwise gone to waste. Additionally, they are often valued by the community too and, when managing a charity shop, you will find yourself getting to know your regular customers very well.

Regardless of your retail experience, you need to understand a few basics. These differences are essential to understand and will help you to ensure a safe and high-earning charity store.

Knowledge of Stock

Unlike most standard retail stores, charity shops cannot easily predict their stock. Both the types of item you receive and the amounts will differ on a daily basis. One minute you may be without books or shoes and the next you will have too many. For this reason, constant adaptability is necessary and your store should be ready to rearrange its floor plan and displays at any moment.

Your own knowledge of stock will be tested too and it is your responsibility to understand the value of a variety of items. If you put in the effort to learn particular brands as well as identify antiques, you will raise much more for your charity.

Safety

Many risks from retail transfer over to the charity sector too. Extinguishers and timber fire doors need to be tested and compliant, and your first aid boxes need to be tactically placed and well-stocked. However, there are many other items and safety checks that you will need to become familiar with to ensure you and your team of volunteers are kept safe.

When emptying donation bags and sorting through items, it is important to be cautious. Wearing gloves is recommended as you may encounter surprises. The recommended method of sorting is to tip the contents of bags out on to the floor, allowing you to sort through items with a full view of the contents. Doing so will prevent being cut or caught by unseen edges.

Volunteers

Perhaps the most significant difference will be your team. In the charity shop, your team will be volunteers and not paid staff. This can be more difficult to manage and should not be approached in the same way as you’re used to. Instead, you should constantly remain aware that your team are donating their time to you and the charity.

Be considerate to their individual abilities and ensure that you are welcoming of them. Creating a fun and pleasant atmosphere will not only support their positive experience, but it may also attract customers to join the team!

Community

Knowing your community is essential for any reputable retailer, but within charity shops it is essential. By learning of the local demand, you will be able to cater to your shop and stock accordingly. Almost every charity shop across the country receives more donated stock than it can handle, which is why choosing the right items for the shop floor is paramount.

Additionally, when getting to know your customers, you may meet hobbyists or collectors, which can be useful contacts to have should you receive an unusual or valuable item.