Manchester has a history as an industrial powerhouse, rooted in textile manufacturing and engineering has provided the perfect foundation for the city’s entrepreneurial endeavours. 

The spirit of innovation, resilience and entrepreneurship is synonymous with the city’s identity, and we celebrate the many amazing independent businesses born here. 

Adanola Brings Athleisure to Manchester 

Founded in 2014 by Hyrum Cook, Adanola has taken the athleisure scene by storm. It is Senior Graphic Designer Abbie’s top pick. With Ada emblazoned on hoods and sweats wherever you walk, Manchester is the proud home of Adanola.

Bringing high-quality, durable athleisure pieces, the brand is inspired by every day life of it’s consumers. They considers sustainability with small production lines, recyclable packaging and off setting their carbon footprint. 

“Every piece is designed to make you feel like your very best self, whatever you’re doing.”

Adanola encompasses the spirit of Manchester, and has a loyal fanbase. Their recent sample sale saw queues stretching into the next suburb. Multiple members of the Social Republic team braved the Manchester rain for an Adanola bargain. 

For The Love of Gin

The story of Manchester Gin is one of love, gin, and a love of gin. This is Graphic Designer Amy’s favourite Manchester Owned business. The story begins at Atlas Bar, where owners Seb and Jen met for the first time.

It tastes amazing and love the story of how the couple met.

 “What you drinking?”

‘’Gin and tonic?”

Their first few dates were at Atlas bar because Gin wasn’t as popular back then. Atlas had a massive selection so they made their way through the menu then decided what flavours to make together. Since then the couple opening Three Little Words, and Manchester Gin.

With a sincere commitment to the city they hold dear, the distillery has consciously selected local suppliers, generated employment opportunities for local residents, and established apprenticeship programs across various sectors within their organization.

The Weird and Wonderful Oklahoma

Since opening in 1997, Oklahoma has been bolding bringing colour and vibrancy to the streets of Manchester. With a goal of providing fun gifts and homeware for anybody to delight in, whether you’re looking for a garden gnome or ‘Fuck Off I’m Reading’ socks, Oklahoma has it all. 

Now serving online only following an unsteady few years through the pandemic, Oklahoma’s presence is missed on the streets of the Northern Quarter, but its impact is still felt. Paving the way for other independent businesses to find success, Oklahoma is a firm favourite with locals, day shoppers and tourists.

Recalling the novelty of a trip into Manchester as a teenager to purchase an Oklahoma tote bag, Account manager Pippa is still a customer now.

The Manchester Queen of Jewellery 

Think nostalgic 00’s, bright colours and cute motifs. July Child throws minimalist  to the wind with their eye-catching jewellery which is the top pick of Erin, Creative Lead at Social Republic. 

Since it was founded by Sinead Flood, July Child has gathered a cult following and found great success, even being sold at the likes of Urban Outfitters. 

Their journey has not been without a Primark rip-off or two, but Sinead has created a brand so recognisable earned the crown to be the ‘queen of jewellery’. Working out of her Manchester home, July Child values minimal waste, small batches and sustainability. Because your jewels can look great without costing the planet.

Manchester is a hive of life and business, and well-deserving of the worker bee emblem. 

What is your favourite Manchester-owned brand?

Could we be a good partner for your brand? Click here to see our work.