The Big Issue is celebrating its 35th anniversary this month, marking more than three decades of providing a “hand up, not a handout” to people experiencing homelessness and poverty across the UK.
Since its launch in September 1991, the social enterprise has supported over 105,000 vendors, who have collectively earned more than £144 million. New impact data released for the anniversary reveals that over 233 million copies of the magazine have been sold to date.
Founded in September 1991 by John Bird and Gordon Roddick, the publication was established as a response to the increasing number of rough sleepers in London. It has since grown into a national institution, adapting its business model to meet the challenges of a modern, increasingly cashless economy.
The modern vendor model
The core principle of The Big Issue remains unchanged: vendors buy the magazine at a wholesale price and sell it to the public at a profit. Currently, vendors purchase copies for £2.50 and sell them for £5, keeping the remaining £2.50 from every sale.
In response to the decline of physical cash, the organisation has overseen a significant technological shift. As of 2026, more than 60% of vendors are equipped with Zettle card readers to accept contactless payments. This transition has been described as vital for maintaining vendor livelihoods as fewer members of the public carry coins.
Beyond street sales, the organisation now offers digital subscriptions. These allow readers to support specific vendors even if they cannot reach them in person, with a portion of the subscription price credited directly to the chosen vendor.
Anniversary ambassadors and stories
To mark the 35-year milestone, musician Bryan Adams has been named an official Big Issue Ambassador. Writing in a special anniversary edition, Adams joined other high-profile supporters in highlighting the “fantastic impact” the magazine has had on social mobility and poverty reduction.
Among those featured in the anniversary coverage is Andy Sanguy, a well-known vendor who operates from his pitch outside the Tesco on Queens Road in Brighton. Mr Sanguy, often accompanied by his dog Lucky Charm, has become a prominent voice for the organisation, recently participating in national campaigns regarding pet-friendly housing for those in temporary accommodation.
The Big Issue Foundation, the organisation’s charitable arm, continues to provide frontline support alongside the magazine sales. This includes assistance with healthcare, housing, and financial management, helping vendors to move towards permanent accommodation and stable employment.
More information on vendor locations and how to support the organisation can be found on The Big Issue website.