Charity Retail Impact Report 2023
Every year Charity Retail Ireland conducts a survey with its members to evaluate their financial, social and environmental impact. 2023 saw a big shift in public policy towards a circular economy. Charity Retail has set the trend by operating to circular economy principles for decades, long before the term existed.
This year we publish our first all Ireland survey of our 43 members representing 432 shops. Last year Charity Retail Ireland extended its membership to include Northern Ireland. Some of our existing members already operate on an all island basis.
- The turnover in 2023 for our 43 members operating 432 shops is €81.4 million.
- This is good news and shows that more people are adopting a more conscious approach to their fashion buying.
- 8,400 people volunteered in charity shops in 2023.
- 11,300 tonnes was diverted from landfill or waste to energy to reuse and recycling. This is the equivalent of 950 double decker buses.
To read the full report for 2023 including our recommendations Download the full report for 2023 here
Charity Retail and the Triple Bottom Line
The 3Ps of the Triple Bottom Line
The triple bottom line is divided into three categories of measurement, known as the 3Ps. These are People, Planet and Profit.
People: this represents the impacts felt by individuals who are directly influenced or affected by the organisation, from employees, families, customers, suppliers, and the wider community.
Planet: these are the culmination of impacts on the natural environment, from the carbon footprint to the use of natural resources.
Profit: or now more commonly referred to as Prosperity, is not just about how money is made but includes the impact the organisation has on the local, national and international economy, including employment, innovation of business or products, wealth creation and more.
Charity Shops provide a unique example of the Triple Bottom Line concept. They provide financial benefits by providing a source of funding for charities who support the most marginalised people in our communities and seek to advocate on their behalf. They have enormous social benefits, providing local employment and training opportunities, for example, community employment schemes. The volunteering opportunities in charity shops can provide a route back to employment for those distant from the workforce as well as providing a sense of purpose and community. Finally, charity shops have a significant role in reducing the environmental impact of the textile industry. They allow textiles and other goods to remain in use for longer, contributing to the circular economy.
By shopping in a charity shop you save money, save waste and save the planet. You also support many amazing causes as our members’ shops raise vital funds for charities nationwide. Many charities have seen an increase in demand for their services during the pandemic so your support is even more important now.
Shop, donate and volunteer in your local charity shop. Click here to find your local shop.