OFFICIAL CELEBRATIONS FOR THE LEWIS FOUNDATION OUTLET

Congratulations to the Lewis Foundation, which has officially launched Northampton’s first “eco-friendly, community-focused” charity shop in Grosvenor Shopping Northampton.

The shop, which opened its doors in July, has already raised more than £10,000, which will help to support cancer patients in the area.

The Mayor of Northampton, local business owners and loyal supporters gathered to mark the official opening of The Lewis Foundation’s Shop, which sells exclusively new, branded items at low prices – all surplus and unwanted stock donated by businesses.

The charity launched its pioneering outlet at the centre as a way of raising funds while reducing waste from local retailers, manufacturers and warehouses.

Phil Murphy, head of property and transactions at Evolve Estates Part of M Core, said: “This original concept is a significant opportunity for The Lewis Foundation to raise much-needed funds for cancer patients and their families across the region. Being located in Grosvenor Shopping Northampton gives the charity a prominent position alongside national brands including Primark, Next and the Body Shop. We wish the charity all the best and hope the community supports the store.”

Lorraine Lewis, CEO of The Lewis Foundation who co-founded the charity with husband Lee in 2016, said: “It has been quite the ride getting to this point and today was one big celebration to bring together some of our most devoted supporters – without them none of this would be possible.

“It’s been no easy feat to create a charity shop that’s so different from others, and to be leading the way with a unique concept that means businesses can be more sustainable whilst giving back to their local community at the same time. It’s an eco-friendly, community-focused concept which everyone has welcomed, about creating opportunities for a wide range of volunteers and bringing businesses together for a shared cause.

“We have managed to make it a success in a matter of months, which means we no longer have to rely solely on funding. We’ve even had other shopping centres in neighbouring counties approach us about opening more stores, so we know our idea works and we hope to replicate it elsewhere very soon.”

To donate surplus stock to The Lewis Foundation, email: hello@thelewisfoundation.co.uk.

For more information on The Lewis Foundation, visit www.thelewisfoundation.co.uk.