Oxfam is set to open a first-of-its-kind vintage shop in Manchester this week, to raise valuable funds to support its poverty-fighting work.
Opening in the Northern Quarter this Friday 27 March, Oxfam Vintage will feature a hand-selected edit of vintage clothing, presented in a newly designed retail space that celebrates circularity, and the craftsmanship, quality and longevity of pre-loved fashion.
The curated space embeds sustainability into the physical retail environment, featuring lighting made from recycled plastics and plywood fixtures, evoking the materiality of Oxfam shipping crates and underlining the charity’s heritage and longstanding role in circular fashion.
Ahead of the opening, Oxfam is inviting the public to take part in a treasure hunt across the city this week, with oversized ‘50% off’ tags hidden across Oxfam shops in Manchester. Shoppers who find the tags can redeem them in Oxfam Vintage upon its opening, adding an interactive and community-driven element.
Rachel Cosgrove-Pearce, Retail Director at Oxfam GB, said: “Oxfam’s first-ever vintage shop marks an exciting new chapter for us. 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.”
Oxfam provides life-saving supplies to people hit by the world’s worst conflicts and natural disasters, as well as helping communities around the world get clean water, grow food and campaign for change. It launched its emergency Middle East appeal this month to support people who have been forced to flee their homes in the wake of devastating airstrikes across the region.
