We care about our impact on the planet.
We are committed to minimising our climate impact through lowering emissions, conserving resources and reducing waste.
In FY26, the Group continued to actively work to reduce its carbon footprint through the adoption of sustainable practices and utilisation of energy efficient solutions. Our governance policies promote transparency and accountability by incorporating climate change considerations into our strategy, increasing the resilience of the business. Our committees are responsible for identifying, assessing and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
FY26 achievements
- Launched a colleague energy‑saving course to reduce energy consumption across our store estate, as set out in our Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) action plan.
- Delivered design and buying workshops to drive the adoption of recyclable, lightweight, cost‑efficient packaging, contributing to a packaging redesign on the Make & Create kids range projected to save 12 tonnes of plastic annually.
- Refined our Scope 3 strategy with support from climate consultancy Positive Planet, ensuring alignment with AIM‑listed and retail sector peers, relevant regulatory frameworks, and our commercial strategy.
- Rehomed 11,628 pre‑loved items (e.g. books, games, toys) through our ‘Play It Forward’ product takeback scheme in partnership with Barnardo’s.
Plans for FY27
- Launch a structured supplier engagement programme to improve Scope 3 data credibility and support the development of an updated Scope 3 emissions target.
- Strengthen compliance processes, including data collection and supplier communication, to manage evolving environmental regulations and risks.
- Maintain momentum and enhance colleague and customer engagement with our ‘Play It Forward’ product takeback scheme, with a refreshed focus on circular economy benefits.
Barnardo's 'Play It Forward' scheme
Since January 2025, we've partnered with Barnardo's to give customers and colleagues the opportunity to donate new and pre-loved items that will help support children and families across the UK. Our stores and Support Centre are equipped with donation bins where you and our colleagues can drop off any new or pre-loved books, games, toys, or stationery. Barnardo's will then collect and repurpose to ensure all items make a difference. By donating, you're not just decluttering - you're giving your unwanted treasures a second chance to be loved by someone else or resold to change a life.
11,628
pre-loved items rehomed in FY26
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