Oxfam is set to open its first-ever dedicated vintage store in Manchester this week as the charity looks to raise funds for its poverty-fighting work and tap into growing demand for pre-loved fashion.
The new concept, called Oxfam Vintage, will open in Manchester’s Northern Quarter on Friday 27 March, offering a hand-picked edit of vintage clothing in a newly designed retail space centred on circularity, craftsmanship and the long-term value of second-hand fashion.
Oxfam said the store has been created to celebrate the quality, individuality and longevity of pre-loved pieces, while also embedding sustainability into the shop environment itself.
Features include lighting made from recycled plastics and plywood fixtures designed to reflect the look and feel of Oxfam shipping crates, a nod to the charity’s heritage and longstanding role in circular fashion.
To mark the launch, Oxfam has also kicked off a city-wide treasure hunt across Manchester, with oversized ‘50 per cent off’ tags hidden in Oxfam shops around the city.
Shoppers who find the tags will be able to redeem them at the new Oxfam Vintage store when it opens, adding an interactive element to the launch and helping drive footfall to the new site.
Rachel Cosgrove-Pearce, retail director at Oxfam GB, said the opening marked a major moment for the organisation.
“Oxfam’s first-ever vintage shop marks an exciting new chapter for us,” she said. “This is about celebrating the stories behind pre-loved fashion – pieces with character, craftsmanship and a sense of individuality.
“The space feels inspiring and by presenting pieces in a considered way, the concept encourages people to see vintage not just as thrift, but as fashion with lasting value. Manchester felt like the perfect place to bring this to life, with its rich cultural heritage and fearless sense of style.
“And every item bought not only gives great clothes a second life, but also helps support Oxfam’s work tackling poverty and inequality around the world.”
The launch comes as second-hand and circular fashion continue to gain momentum with shoppers seeking more sustainable and affordable ways to refresh their wardrobes.
Funds raised through the new store will support Oxfam’s wider humanitarian work, including providing emergency supplies to people affected by conflict and natural disasters, as well as helping communities access clean water, grow food and campaign for change.
The charity also launched its emergency Middle East appeal this month to support people forced to flee their homes following devastating airstrikes across the region.
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