Shops working to make up lost time

As with all retail businesses, Covid-19 hit the Hospice Shops hard, forcing us to close during Levels 4 and 3. The loss of revenue was significant, but the shops team are a resilient bunch and have rallied in Level 2. Now they’re almost back up to full speed.  

Opening in level 2 required quite a change in our processes, including quarantining donations for 72 hours, restricted numbers in store, shorter opening hours, and strict hygiene and physical distancing rules. While working to these new protocols has been challenging, we would like to thank our loyal donors and customers who have been incredibly understanding and supportive.   

We are also incredibly grateful to our amazing volunteers who have returned as soon as it was safe to do so. Their support has enabled the shops to get back to their vital business of making money to support the work of Hospice across the Nelson Tasman region.  

Right now the focus in the shops is to make up for the lost revenue as best we can. We know we won’t hit our annual sales target now, but we will work hard to get as close as we can.  

In order to achieve this, we need donations of quality furniture, bric-a-brac and clothing. Our team is available to pick up larger furniture items – just give the Richmond store a call on (03) 543 7017.  

Remember, you can support Hospice by donating to or purchasing from any one of our four Hospice Shops located in Nelson, Richmond, Motueka, and Takaka. Or perhaps you might like to support us by giving of your time as a valued shop volunteer. All our shops have volunteer vacancies. Just pop in and ask to speak to the store manager. Not only will you be welcomed with open arms, you will become part of a friendly and fun-loving whanau who are vital in supporting a valued community organisation.