A new clothing store has opened in the Northern Quarter replacing Oi Polloi. Hip store on Thomas Street welcomed new customers on Friday (June 2) in the building that was once home to the iconic independent retailer.
Earlier this year, it was revealed that Oi Polloi would be closing with founders in conversation with JD regarding a rebrand of the premise. JD sports have been the owners of Oi Polloi since 2021.
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The news was met with great remorse, with even Liam Gallagher taking to Twitter to voice his disappointment. Oi Polloi was created by Steve Sanderson and Nigel Lawson who took to Instagram in April to set the record straight on the brand's future.
In a lengthy and emotional post, the owners said that the clothing brand has "not bit the dust" but has gone into "hibernation", and encouraged followers to subscribe to its newsletter for "exact battle plans". An Instagram post by the owners read: "There’s been a few rumours boy-racing down the information superhighway these past couple of months regarding Oi Polloi’s future, so it’s time to set the record straight – no, Oi Polloi has not bit the dust.
"We are having to go into hibernation for a bit, but like a phoenix rising from the ashes of a torched public-use e-bike, we will rise again. Huge changes are on the horizon, some good, some not so much… so let’s start with that.
"Unfortunately, our beloved Manchester outpost on Thomas Street has sadly retired to the big pearly white retail park in the sky. We’d like to thank everyone who ever came down to the shop to buy something or just to have a good ol’ chinwag, and without getting too teary-eyed, we’re absolutely gutted to say goodbye to our Mancunian stronghold and all those who passed through its hallowed doors – customers and staff members alike.
"That being said, Oi Polloi will live on, albeit in a metamorphosed form – we’re going back to the source of the Oi Polloi wellspring, taking a dip, then marching into hitherto uncharted zones with a invigorated pep in our step. We’ve got to remain tight-lipped about our exact battle plans for now, but you can stay updated by subscribing to our newsletter (link in bio), as well as keeping a keen eye on our socials. We’ll see you soon. Oi Polloi."
The founders signed off with a quote from Frank Zappa, writing: “Without deviation from the norm, progress is not possible."
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