Our Shops

KCU has operated at least one shop, and at times two, on the high street in Kettering. These shops provide opportunities for individuals to develop and utilise skills, while also offering a valuable social outlet for those seeking to gain employment or maintain a regular routine. In addition to their community benefit, the shops generate a sustainable level of income to support the wider work of KCU.

The charity shops support multiple strands of KCU’s community activities, including:

  • Fundraising and income generation: Proceeds from recycled and donated goods help fund services such as the Foodbank, training courses, furniture recycling, and emergency support.

  • Donations hub: Shops serve as local drop-off points for both food and non-food donations that can be redistributed where most needed across the community (e.g., foodbank parcels, furniture, household items).

  • Community engagement: Retail spaces help strengthen community ties by offering volunteering opportunities, skill development, and a visible local presence in Kettering.

  • Reducing waste: By selling pre-loved goods, KCU contributes to environmental sustainability while supporting low-income households with access to affordable items.

Inside the KCU shop before it was ready to be opened !
Room under renovation with wooden shelves, a stepladder, and construction debris on the floor.
View inside a store or office through large glass window, showing cluttered space with desks, chairs, and people cleaning or organizing.

The pictures above show the shop being prepared to open, all of the work was carried out by our fantastic volunteers.

BELOW are the latest pictures of shop, which is now OPEN