Larkfield distribution centre celebrates one year
Demelza’s newest charity shop has welcomed more than 23,000 customers through its doors in its first year.
The store, a hidden gem in the heart of Larkfield, opened a year ago today (5 November) and has already made a tangible impact – selling an incredible 87,299 items to 23,587 customers, including influencer Sophie Price who visited in March to pick out some potential Mother’s Day outfits.
Staffed by a dedicated team of employees and volunteers who spend their days sorting, pricing and merchandising, the shop is one of Demelza’s largest and offers an extensive range of stock, from clothes and toys to furniture and more. It also serves as the charity’s main distribution centre, supporting 28 shops across Kent, South East London and East Sussex, as well as the organisation’s online stores.
Of all the varied items they’ve been donated, the most unusual – and most expensive – is a rare art nouveau tile designed by Carl Sigmund Luber, which would make a lovely addition to any art enthusiast’s collection and is still available to buy here.
As it enters its second year, the shop on Sheldon Way offers shoppers the chance to discover fantastic bargains, and will be hosting a range of exciting events, from kilo sales to a Valentine’s Day wedding pop-up event.
Demelza’s Deputy Director of Retail, Gemma Cruttenden, said: “The support from local customers has been, and continues to be, simply incredible. We couldn’t do what we do without them.
“The Larkfield shop has been such a great space for facilitating collaboration within Demelza too, from hosting volunteering days for our corporate partners to inviting colleagues from across departments to come and work with us. I’m really excited to see more of that.”
Demelza’s Director of Retail, Ashley Henson, said: “Larkfield is now turning into a success story for the organisation and local community. I am so chuffed and proud of the staff and volunteer team after such a monumental move from the Maidstone distribution centre.
“We are incredibly grateful to the local and wider community who support by donating and shopping. Please continue to visit, and why not tell people about the amazing Demelza Larkfield.”
To find out more about the shop and distribution centre’s upcoming events, follow @DemelzaCharity on Facebook and Instagram.
“Larkfield is now turning into a success story for the organisation and local community. I am so chuffed and proud of the staff and volunteer team after such a monumental move from the Maidstone distribution centre."
