A volunteer-run Stony bookshop in Stony Stratford has raised more than £1 million for Willen Hospice, underlining the commercial impact of community-led charity retail in Milton Keynes.
The milestone comes 10 years after volunteers stepped in to keep the shop open, creating a sustainable retail operation that now sells around 1,000 books each week. In addition to driving consistent bookshop sales, the volunteer team supports a broader income strategy by working with the Hospice’s online retail operation.
Volunteers help identify valuable stock for resale through eBay and auction houses, extending the shop’s reach beyond the high street. As a result, the model combines traditional retail with digital channels to maximise income generation for Willen Hospice.
Ian Palmer, associate director of retail at Willen Hospice, said: “For a decade, our bookshop has been run by a group of volunteers who have generously given their time. Every hour they’ve contributed and every book sold has made a real difference to local families supported by Willen Hospice.”
All income generated contributes to the £9.6 million the charity must raise each year to fund specialist care for patients and their families across Milton Keynes. Retail therefore remains a critical part of the organisation’s funding model, alongside donations and fundraising activity.
The Stony bookshop also reflects wider trends in charity retail, where physical stores are increasingly integrated with online sales platforms. Its strong location in Stony Stratford, combined with a popular children’s section and regular stock turnover, continues to attract repeat customers and donors.
Rita Barratt, part of the volunteer steering group, said: “We run the bookshop for a supportive local community who show their commitment to Willen Hospice in many ways. We’re proud of our bookshop and our volunteer team.”
The 10-year anniversary will be marked throughout April with in-store promotions and customer giveaways, while volunteers will also be recognised at an event hosted by chief executive Kate Broadhurst.
