28 Jan 2026 Shop News

The Kirkwood host eBay conference

In January 2026, The Kirkwood welcomed hospices from across the country to its Sands Mill site for a dedicated eBay conference, showcasing the charity’s growing reputation as a leading example of online retail within the hospice sector.

Representatives travelled from Yorkshire, the North East and North West, all coming together to learn more about how The Kirkwood has developed its successful eBay operation and the impact it continues to have.

The day provided an opportunity to share ideas, experiences and best practice, with a range of topics discussed including financial performance, outlet and retail links, product selection, and both local and international trade through online platforms. Attendees also explored the importance of volunteering within online sales, and how The Kirkwood has benefited from support ranging from local businesses to students from colleges and universities, helping to strengthen the operation while building valuable community connections.

A key theme of the conference was how future technologies could support hospice retail even further. Discussions included the potential of AI and other digital tools to recognise and identify products more quickly, improve listings, and help items sell more effectively online, enabling hospice charities to maximise income and make the most of every donation.

As well as the conference discussions, visiting hospices were invited to tour The Kirkwood’s eBay and retail facilities at Sands Mill, giving them a behind the scenes look at the processes, systems and teamwork involved in turning donated goods into vital income for hospice care.

Paul Freethy, Associate Director of Retail with The Kirkwood commented on the conference by saying: “Bringing hospices together at Sands Mill was a fantastic opportunity to share knowledge, learn from each other and show what’s possible when you invest in online retail. Our eBay operation has grown into something we’re incredibly proud of, and it’s been shaped by great teamwork, strong processes and brilliant support from our volunteers. Ultimately, every sale we make helps fund vital patient and family care across Kirklees, so it’s wonderful to be able to showcase that impact and help other hospices explore the same opportunities.”

Gary Stancliffe, Online Sales Manager with The Kirkwood also added: “It was great to welcome so many hospices from around the country and talk openly about what works, what we’ve learnt along the way and how we continue to improve. From the products we list to the way we trade both locally and nationally, eBay gives us the chance to maximise the value of donations and turn them into essential funds for care. We also had some really exciting conversations about the future, including how AI and new technologies could help us recognise products more quickly, create stronger listings and sell more effectively, which could make an even bigger difference for hospice care going forward.”

The event also highlighted the wider impact of online trading for The Kirkwood. Every sale made through the charity’s eBay operation plays a vital role in supporting patient and family care for people across the Kirklees area, helping to provide compassionate specialist support for those living with a life limiting illness.

By opening its doors and sharing its knowledge, The Kirkwood is helping to strengthen the wider hospice network, proving that innovation, volunteering and a strong online presence can make a real difference both for hospice finances and for the people who rely on hospice care. 

If you'd like to become a volunteer at our eBay site please click HERE and get in touch.