Hospice charity opens pop-up shop at university campus

Treetops Hospice has officially opened a new pop-up charity shop at the University of Derby – marking the first collaboration of its kind between a local hospice charity and a university in the Midlands.

The shop was recently officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Professor Neil Fowler, Provost – Learning and Teaching at the University of Derby.

Taking place during Freshers’ Week, the store opening sat at the heart of one of the busiest and most exciting weeks in the university calendar.

Located at the University’s Kedleston Road site and open throughout term time from 8am to 6pm, the shop will trade until Christmas, offering students, staff and visitors affordable and sustainable options while raising vital funds to support local hospice care.

The opening represents a significant milestone for Treetops Hospice’s retail offering, bringing sustainable fashion, pre-loved treasures and brand-new products directly to the student community.

Visitors to the pop-up store can browse a wide range of donated goods, including men’s and women’s clothing, homeware, electrical items and bric-a-brac.

The shop also features a dedicated selection of new goods and branded products, including premium Kate Spade stationery and drinkware.

To celebrate the launch, Treetops hosted a special Golden Ticket giveaway, with 10 winning tickets hidden throughout the store.

James Thomas, head of retail at Treetops Hospice, said: “We’re delighted to open our doors at the University of Derby and bring a new shopping experience to campus.

“This partnership is a fantastic example of how organisations committed to making a positive impact can come together to support sustainability, community and local hospice care.

“Students are increasingly seeking affordable and environmentally conscious shopping options, and our pop-up shop offers exactly that.

“They can also know that every purchase made helps fund the compassionate care and support that Treetops provides in the community.”

Professor Kathryn Mitchell CBE DL, vice-chancellor and chief executive at the University of Derby, said: “We are delighted to welcome Treetops Hospice to the University of Derby.

“This partnership reflects our commitment as a civic university in supporting organisations that make a real difference to people’s lives.

“The shop will not only raise essential funds to support the care provided by Treetops but will also give our students and staff valuable opportunities to engage with the charity, develop their understanding of social responsibility and contribute to causes that have a meaningful impact across our region.”