Reimagining the High Street, Reviving Business, Restoring Hope

Reimagined, revitalised, and brought back to life. Part monastery, part marketplace, fully alive with the hopes and dreams of our people, The Old Department Store has been given a new lease on life.

After being empty for five years, our building now stands as a testament to the generosity, optimism, and hard work of a community inspired by a shared vision, and brims with life as home to thriving social enterprises.

Tradition meets transformation here, and the very notion of a department store is turned on its head, pioneering a new economy that serves the community, meets need, and enables people to thrive with purpose, belonging, and hope. 

13055 Visitors Welcomed

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19943.25 Hours of Paid Employment

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8245 Pay-As-You-Can Meals

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13055 Visitors Welcomed - 19943.25 Hours of Paid Employment - 8245 Pay-As-You-Can Meals -

Our Social Impact

Each year, we’ll share a Social Impact Report that captures not only the milestones of our social enterprises but the heart of our work—how we are reimagining the high street, reviving business and restoring hope in community. This is what truly shapes who we are at The Old Department Store.

We are delighted to share our very first Social Impact Report (October 2024-March 2025), capturing a snapshot of our first six months at The Old Department Store. We hope it gives you a sense of all that’s been happening and leaves you encouraged and inspired as you read.

13055 Visitors Welcomed

-

19943.25 Hours of Paid Employment

-

8245 Pay-As-You-Can Meals

-

13055 Visitors Welcomed - 19943.25 Hours of Paid Employment - 8245 Pay-As-You-Can Meals -

  • I visited today and just want to say I’m blown away. Congratulations on all you do. It’s incredible how you’ve put an old department store to the best use I can possibly think of for the good of all. Go forth and multiply! Amazing. This is the future of all shops and indeed all towns. What vision and tenacity.

    With love and respect, Paula Benson

  • What a fabulous place - so inclusive and a great place to be community. Thank you.

    Ros & Reggie

  • Thank you for your hospitality - beautiful coffee.

    Robert from Glos

  • Always a pleasure to visit. What a community gem. Thank you and all the best for the continued flourishing!

    Customer

  • What a lovely place! You have all done such a great job. We will be back - my little girl loved the play area.

    Customer

  • I appreciate all of you who contribute to this initiative. Thank you

    Customer

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