A County Durham couple are set to open a large new shop dedicated to American sports. Sharon Cotterell and Paul Frampton are bringing their business, Vintage World Order, to a physical location on the high street in Langley Moor.
From student markets to a permanent home
The pair, who live just outside Durham city centre, have had a long-standing interest in American football, basketball, hockey, and baseball. That interest stems from Paul's own collection of clothing, which came back into focus during a major change in their lives.
Sharon, 57, explained: "We started off doing student markets, but there is now actually a wide appeal for these products, we have had a 72-year-old customer, and we have seen a huge rise in girls being interested because of Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce, and their relationship."
"When we saw that there was an opportunity to move here, we jumped at the chance, as there is a new park and ride, and a Pokémon shop has opened, so we feel like it is a good location. We can't wait for the launch on Saturday at 10am, and are really excited to open."
A collection that became a business
On what started the business off, Paul, 47, continued: "When our sons moved out, my NHL, NBA, NFL, and MLB collection moved down and filled the spare room, which Sharon wasn't too pleased about. She said if I was going to buy, I'd have to sell, so that's how I was able to get things going."
"Before I knew it, we had a thousand items, and have always been open to new things, so we started livestreaming and selling things online. We feel like we live the dream, as we are able to be part of people finding something that they absolutely love."
"There is a real nostalgia and family connection with the teams, the pieces are like wearable photographs. We used to do the Superbowl at The Hancock bar in Newcastle, and people would wear all the different teams colours, and we would sell a lot, and I think that is because American sports are less tribalistic and more community-based."
Community focus and opening day
With a lot of people getting in touch to ask if a physical shop was on the cards, the couple have said that they have customers coming from as far as Devon, Peterborough, and Scotland this Saturday. They have been setting everything up this week, as they eagerly await the big day.
Sharon added: "We want this to be a community shop, and we want to help people get something no matter their circumstances. We are working with other businesses too, like the travel agent near us, as we are giving 15% off for those who have booked a trip to the USA."
"We have been going flat out with the preparations, and are actually ahead of where we thought we would be. If people want a sneak preview of what we offer ahead of the opening, they can have a look at our eBay page, Instagram, and Facebook."
