SHOPS
2007 was another good year for the four Girlguiding shops in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee and Aberdeen. In fact, sales exceeded expectations. As a result of Guiders, girls and parents using the shops, and the Edinburgh mail order service, the shop profits were able to make a significant financial contribution to Girlguiding Scotland’s work across the country. The shop at Netherurd was also well used by visiting groups of children and adults.
The wide array of stock includes Guiding and Scouting uniforms, publications, craft materials, gifts and books as well as a good range of items using the Girlguiding Scotland Tartan. One of the highlights of the year was the Tartan Gig shop, established specially at the Concert Hall for the duration of the Tartan Gig. It sold a selection of t-shirts, flashing wands and fibre optic products. £4,500 was taken in 1 ½ hours which was fantastic and great fun - especially watching the effect of the lights in the auditorium.
The shops continued to support leaders across Scotland with a variety of resources including the launch of the Senior Section CD-ROM featuring the updated programme. This information format is proving very popular with girls and leaders.
From a staff perspective, there were many changes, in particular, the retirement of Margaret, the Dundee manager, and Joan, the Edinburgh manager, after many years of service. Their staff and customers will miss their enthusiasm, dedication and commitment, and wish them a well earned rest.
Looking forward, there are several ways to obtain Guiding goods and benefit Scottish Guiding. As well as the shops and the mail order service, there are a number of depots manned by volunteers and there is a sale-orreturn service available which can be used for Unit, District or County events. Thanks to a discount on goods sold, the sale-or-return service is a great way for local Guiding to earn funds.
Details for all the shops are on the Scottish website. Remember - please don’t buy Guiding, Scouting, gifts or craft supplies anywhere else - support Scottish Guide shops. All money raised in Scotland, stays in Scotland.