As well as buying the magazine, you can also support our work with vendors online through a one-off or monthly contribution.
How Big Issue works: 3-step guide
1. Big Issue creates and distributes the magazine
Each week, our award‑winning editorial team of journalists and designers produces the Big Issue magazine. Our journalism focuses on UK social justice news, and provides a platform for voices that wouldn’t be heard elsewhere.
2. Vendors buy and sell the magazine
Vendors purchase each magazine for £2.50. They collect them from local offices or distribution points, and in some parts of the UK, we also deliver directly to vendors.
Vendors then sell each copy of the magazine to the public for £5, and they keep every penny of profit.
Many vendors now accept contactless payments too – making it easier to say yes to more sales.
3. Big Issue reinvests the £2.50 it receives for each magazine
The money vendors pay us for their magazines gets reinvested in two main ways:
1. Magazine Production
It pays for the journalism, printing, and distribution that keep the Big Issue on the streets each week.
2. Support for vendors
It funds vital services such as financial advice, housing support, or sales training.
When you buy a magazine, you’re helping someone earn a living with dignity. And when you take the magazine, you show respect for the work they’ve chosen to do.
The more vendors earn.
The more support we can provide.
The closer we get to ending poverty in the UK.
Buy a Big Issue. Take it with you. Change lives
FAQs
Are vendors employed by Big Issue?
No, vendors are independent sellers of our magazine. Each vendor can start earning straight away. They choose their hours. And if life gets tough, they can step away and return when they’re ready.
Do vendors need a licence to sell the magazine?
Vendors don’t need a licence, as selling magazines on public streets is legally permitted without one. However, we provide every vendor with an official Big Issue badge and an allocated pitch, which helps us keep things safe, consistent and organised.
Other ways to support
Subscribe to the magazine
Support a vendor
Support our Poverty Zero campaign
