After a busy summer, Head of Retail Marcus Harrison shares the latest from our charity shops – from new faces and our exciting RSPCA Devon look to autumn bargains and a little love for your donations.
It’s been a busy summer across our shops, with sunshine, bustling high streets and plenty of visitors through our doors. A huge thank you to every customer, member of staff and volunteer who helped make it such a successful season.
We recently said a fond farewell to Tiverton Shop Manager Bex, who opened the shop in March 2025. Her wonderful send-off from volunteers was testament to the respect and affection she built during her time with us. We’re delighted she’s staying in animal welfare, joining the British Hen Welfare Trust.
We’ve also welcomed a new Deputy Shop Manager – John in Brixham and new Shop Manager Liz in Tiverton. Both have earned lovely feedback for their hard work, compassion and positivity.
Our new Lead Shift Volunteer role is also proving a success, giving experienced volunteers more responsibility. Pete in Newton Abbot, Jackie in Brixham, Sue in Sidwell Street and John in Tiverton are all doing a fantastic job supporting their teams.
You may already have noticed a big change across our shops as they are rebranded as RSPCA Devon, adopting the RSPCA’s new national identity.
Importantly, this work has been funded through an RSPCA grant, so no money intended for animals in our care is being used.
The recognised RSPCA name should help attract even more people to our shops, particularly in busy tourist towns. The signs may be changing, but the people and purpose remain the same – money raised continues to support Little Valley and animal welfare across Devon.
We’re also asking our supporters to Donate With Love.
Almost half of items donated to charity shops nationally are unsuitable for sale, creating waste and disposal costs. Our simple rule is:
If you wouldn’t give it to a friend, please don’t give it to us.
Donating clean, good-quality items means more can be sold to raise vital funds for our work.
Congratulations also go to eight-year-old Lucia, winner of Sidwell Street’s colouring competition – and thank you to everyone who took part!
As autumn arrives, look out for seasonal displays, changing ranges and plenty of bargains – with Christmas gifts, our online shop and charity shop gift cards not far behind.
Finally, a huge thank you to our incredible volunteers. Our shops simply couldn’t achieve what they do without the time, enthusiasm and dedication of the people who volunteer with us.
And if they inspire you, why not join our retail family?
Marcus Harrison
Head of Retail
