A much-loved Cancer Research UK charity shop in Armagh city centre is set to close its doors permanently on September 9, bringing an end to almost 20 years on Scotch Street.
The store has been described as a popular and well-supported destination for bargain hunters and thrift shoppers. Its closure will affect the local retail presence of the cancer charity, which says the decision is part of a wider change to its high-street operations.
Closing sale under way
A closing sale is now taking place in the shop, with the organisation anticipating that the Armagh premises will shut permanently on September 9. The store has been at the heart of Armagh’s high street for more than 18 years.
Over that time, donations and purchases made at the Scotch Street shop helped support Cancer Research UK’s work into cancer treatment. The charity said retail contributed more than £225 million to its mission during the last 10 years.
Why the charity is changing its shop network
Cancer Research UK announced the retail changes in October, citing rising costs, inflationary pressures and changing consumer habits. Under the plans covering 2026 and 2027, the charity is reducing its core high-street chain to about 320 high-performing shops.
The organisation said around 90 shops would close by May 2026, with up to 100 more closures planned by April 2027. At the same time, it is expanding its out-of-town superstore network, with 12 new stores due to open over the next two years.
The Armagh shop has been identified as one of the stores earmarked for closure. Cancer Research UK said the changes are intended to maximise the money raised for life-saving research and prevent shops becoming financially unsustainable over the next five years.
Message to staff, volunteers and customers
Julie Byard, the charity’s director of trading, thanked the staff, volunteers and customers who supported the Armagh store and said their efforts had helped fund vital research and support people affected by cancer.
“We are deeply grateful to our staff, volunteers and customers who have supported the Armagh shop at Scotch Street over the years. Their dedication and generosity have helped fund vital cancer research and made a real difference to people affected by cancer. We know the news will be difficult, and we want to thank everyone for the incredible contribution they’ve made to our mission.”
She said the closure was not a reflection of the work carried out by local teams, describing it instead as a necessary step to keep Cancer Research UK resilient and focused on the future.
“While the Armagh shop may be closing, our commitment to beating cancer together remains stronger than ever.”
The charity said it is working closely with everyone affected and will support them through the change.
