End of an era as Oklahoma to close Northern Quarter shop after 25 years

Much-loved Northern Quarter store Oklahoma is to close its doors after 25 years.

Originally opened in 1997, Oklahoma has become the biggest indie gift store in the city, celebrating all kinds of talented artists and makers with its famously eclectic store.

Founder Nicola Payne confirmed the news on social media, saying the brand will switch attention solely to its online operation.

Payne wrote: “After 25 years of being a shop keeper, I’ve decided to close the physical store in Manchester’s Northern Quarter and Oklahoma will focus all its energy on its online offering.

“The last three years have been ones of upheaval and change for Oklahoma with Covid bringing many problems and opportunities. Mainly it made me focus on our online offering which was exciting for me and allowed time for new creative focus and ideas.

“As a result, we were able to reach lots of new customers all over the UK and aboard and share a little of the Oklahoma magic.”

✉️ 🐧 💕 pic.twitter.com/acYtfzIcCt

— Oklahoma MCR (@OklahomaMCR) January 13, 2023

“Since the bricks and mortar shop reopened I have been juggling two businesses and now feels like the perfect time to close our physical shop and focus all my energy on our website offering, exciting new products and collaborations.

“At 52 years of age I hope to also find more time to garden, travel, take up yoga again, relax with friends and family and to get a bit of well deserved head space. Having a physical shop has been an absolute blast and has brought me so much joy.

“As those who have followed our journey will know, it’s had so many different guises over so many years. It’s been a pleasure working with so many beloved staff members, many of whom I’m still in regular contact with all over the world.

“And of course, big love to all you wonderful customers who have visited the shop over the years. I am excited about this next step for me, and for the business.

“I can’t wait to bottle all the best colourful bits of Oklahoma and continue to showcase with all the great finds on okla.co.uk.”

Oklahoma’s physical store will close at the end of January, so pay them a visit before then if you can.