New charity superstore opens today

A former farming shop which has been transferred in to a life-saving megastore will open today.

The Hanger in the former Countrywide store in Scalford Road will raise funds for the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance.

The unit has undergone a substantial transformation over the past few weeks in turning the space into The Hanger superstore which will sell both new and pre-loved homeware, furniture, clothing, electricals, living, and brand-new white goods.

The superstore will feature a café, open within store hours, offering a wide variety of hot and cold food and drinks and a delicious selection of cakes. In addition, a drive-thru donation station, where people can drop off preloved items, is also provided as well as a collection and delivery service.

The superstore in Scalford Road ready for service. Photo: NEMM.

Gemma Ingram, Head of Retail for the charity, said: “The success of our store is vital as the Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA) receives no government funding and relies solely on donations from the public and retail income to keep saving lives. We currently operate 59 shops and this latest venture will be our fourth superstore.

“Shopping in a charity shop is experience shopping,” explained Gemma. “Customers love the thrill of not knowing what they will find, and we want to make that experience last longer by offering a wider choice with a fantastic, safe, and friendly environment.”

The site includes ‘The Landing Pad Cafe’ as well as the super store. Photo: NEMM.

The superstore comes off the back of the launch earlier this year of two brand new replacement helicopters for the lifesaving charity as it continues to provide its vital lifesaving service across the county and beyond.