Manchester brand Bound has opened a flagship store in a former Northern Quarter mainstay that has been a recognizable landmark for 60 years. The eclectic Clark Brothers shop on Thomas Street, which sold everything from stationery to Christmas decorations, has been completely refitted and transformed into a premium menswear destination.
A New Chapter for a Historic Space
Established in 1948, Clark Brothers had been at its last premises for 26 years before closing. After lying dormant for over a year, the unit has been transformed into a contemporary streetwear store led by founder Jake Messe. The store sells T-shirts, jackets, jumpers, shorts, trainers, sunglasses, and caps, along with a special World Cup capsule collection.
Local Collaborations and Community Focus
Bound champions local and independent brands through limited edition products, food collaborations, and live music. Current partnerships include the NFL and AllPress coffee roasters. Jake Messe, who moved to Manchester 15 years ago for university, said: 'I've always wanted to open a brick-and-mortar store in our hometown. It's a city that has given me so much. I'm excited to give something back through a retail experience that feels unique to Bound and the community around it.'
Sustainable Fashion with a Manchester Twist
Bound started in 2018 with a focus on premium essentials made from sustainable materials with detailed craftsmanship. The collection includes a Buzzin' t-shirt featuring a playful nod to Manchester's worker bee mascot. This is the brand's first physical store, previously only sold online and through stockists like Selfridges and END.
The 150-square-foot double-fronted space pays homage to its historical setting with architectural details dating back to the early 1900s, including a classic shop countertop turned into a changing room. Jake previously told the M.E.N: 'The Northern Quarter doesn't have enough retail, it's saturated with food and drink. I wanted to bring something different.'
Future Plans
Initially opening as a nine-month pop-up, the aim is for a long-term presence. The store will also serve as an activation spot for sponsorships with brands like Estrella Damm, MOTH Cocktails, and Living Things. Bound opens at 34-36 Thomas Street, M4 1ER, at 10 AM on June 13.
