The Faith Mission consults on the future of bookshops across Northern Ireland and Scotland
6 February 2026
For many years, The Faith Mission’s bookshops in Scotland and Northern Ireland have been places where people discovered the Gospel, explored faith through books or café conversations, found encouragement, and received support for ministry.
Our staff have worked with dedication, not only selling books but sharing faith, praying with customers, and providing helpful resources. This legacy is deeply meaningful.
But the retail market has changed a lot, especially since Covid. Like many other bookshops in the UK, The Faith Mission’s shops have faced fewer visitors, higher costs and more people shopping online.
As Trustees, our priority is to steward the Mission’s resources wisely to ensure we fulfil our core mission and charitable goals. For this reason, we are beginning a formal consultation with our staff about the future of our 10 remaining bookshops. All feedback will be carefully considered before deciding on next steps.
We know this is a difficult time for our staff, and we are making sure they get the support and care they need. We also ask for your prayers for everyone impacted and for the Mission during this period.
Our bookshops are still open as usual, and we look forward to welcoming our customers.
The Faith Mission’s evangelism and training work continues across the UK and Ireland. Our Bible College in Edinburgh continues to train the next generation for ministry, including a new scholarship programme for those called to evangelistic work.
For nearly 140 years, The Faith Mission has been passionately committed to sharing the unchanging message of the Gospel, particularly in the villages and rural areas across the UK and Ireland. That commitment continues.
Mervyn Tomb
General Director, The Faith Mission