The annual Wilmslow Christmas card shop is preparing to open this weekend, giving both local and national charities a unique opportunity to sell their cards and customers the reassurance that every penny spent on the cards goes back to the charities.
Unlike many shops selling charity Christmas cards, the pop-up shop takes absolutely nothing from the purchase price so customers are assured that whichever charity they choose to support will receive 100% of the money spent on their cards.
Now in its 45th year, the Wilmslow shop will open upstairs in Wilmslow library on Saturday 29th October for six weeks, closing on Saturday 10th December. This year they have 37 charities represented in the Wilmslow shop, all of whom participate free of charge. New charities joining the Wilmslow shop this year are Age Concern Cheshire East and Perennial, the horticultural charity.
In addition to the Christmas cards there is also a wide selection of gifts, wrapping paper, stocking fillers and calendars, the margin from which goes towards covering the costs such as room rental, publicity and bank charges which enables them to ensure that charities get 100% of the card price paid.
Shop founder and organizer Sheila Hallas MBE said, "Everyone is a volunteer, we must number about 500. Wonderful generous people, who give precious time to staff the shops."
Since the enterprise started back in 1971 they have raised over £4.75m for the participating local and national charities.
Sheila added "It is just a different shop from your usual high street shop. Unique and interesting. The atmosphere is relaxed and fun, come and see for yourself.
"There is a "feel good factor" to the shops. You know who is going to benefit, and where your money is going."
The Wilmslow shop will be open from 9am to 5pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with late opening until 7pm on Mondays and Thursdays.
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