WALES Air Ambulance has announced the official opening of its new charity shop in Bangor on Monday 14 August 2023. The new store, situated in The Menai Centre, offers more space compared to its previous location and aims to enhance the shopping experience for patrons.
Previously situated on the High Street, the charity’s Bangor retail outlet closed last month in anticipation of this move. Amanda Hilton, who continues in her role as the Bangor Shop Manager, expressed her enthusiasm for the relocation. She mentioned the larger floor area of the new space, which can now accommodate a variety of donated items, both big and small. The charity invites the public to visit the shop on its opening day.
In addition to Hilton, the charity has hired an assistant manager as part of its relocation efforts and offers volunteering opportunities for those interested in assisting at the shop.
Wales Air Ambulance has made significant strides in its strategic approach. In 2021, a new strategy was introduced, formulated with feedback from employees, supporters, and volunteers. This led to the new Retail Blueprint, emphasising a balance between revenue generation for its emergency service and augmenting its presence in the community.
Rob Coles, the Head of Retail for Wales Air Ambulance, spoke about the organisation’s longstanding connection to Bangor and their decision to relocate. He cited positive feedback from other Menai Centre retailers regarding high footfall and good business as reasons for choosing the location.
Adding to the occasion, the Mayor of Bangor, councillor Elin Walker Jones, will be present during the morning of the shop’s opening.
Funds raised from the Bangor shop through the sale of donated items directly support the charity’s mission. Wales Air Ambulance requires £11.2 million annually to maintain its helicopters and rapid response vehicles, all of which are instrumental in its lifesaving efforts.
The Menai Centre’s recent acquisition by Bearmont Capital has led to a collaborative approach with Wales Air Ambulance to ensure a successful relocation. Rob Lloyd, CEO of Bearmont Capital, expressed his optimism about the new addition to the shopping centre and its potential positive impact on the local high street.
The Wales Air Ambulance has provided crucial emergency air cover for those facing life-threatening situations since its inception in 2001. To date, they’ve embarked on over 46,000 missions. The service emphasises rapid response and delivering hospital-standard treatments directly at incident scenes.
For further information or enquiries, kindly contact Laura Worgan at 0300 0152 999 or email [email protected].
