Manchester Fashion Retailer Joanie Clothing Announces Unexpected Closure
Manchester-based fashion brand Joanie Clothing has confirmed its sudden closure after nine years of trading, marking the end of an era for the vintage-inspired retailer. The company, which built a substantial global following through its online platform, made the announcement via social media, stating it was entering "the final chapter" of its business journey.
Multiple External Challenges Cited for Demise
In an extensive Instagram statement, company directors attributed the closure to a series of external economic pressures that have accumulated in recent years. They specifically highlighted the ongoing impacts of Brexit, the Covid-19 pandemic, and newly imposed international tariffs as significant factors that have taken their toll on operations. The statement explained that these challenges, many of which were outside the company's control, created adverse trading conditions that ultimately proved insurmountable despite their best efforts to adapt and continue.
The brand's website remains accessible to visitors, but orders can no longer be processed through the platform. Customers with outstanding queries have been directed to contact FRP Advisory, while the comments section on the company's Instagram posts has been disabled following the announcement.
Celebrity Collaborations and Manchester Heritage
Throughout its nine-year existence, Joanie Clothing developed a distinctive identity through notable celebrity partnerships and collaborations with Manchester cultural institutions. The brand recently worked with American Mad Men actress Christina Hendricks and forged memorable partnerships with Manchester-born fashion designer Celia Birtwell. Perhaps most innovatively, the company collaborated with Coronation Street to create a collection inspired by the cobbles, terraces, and retail outlets of the iconic Manchester soap opera.
Founded in 2016 by entrepreneur Lucy Gledhill, the brand was named in honour of her Great Auntie Joanie and operated from Ardwick, Manchester for eight years before relocating its registered office to North Yorkshire last year. The company philosophy centered around "slow fashion" principles, encouraging customers to purchase less while prioritising quality garments infused with nostalgic design elements.
Heartfelt Thanks to Global Community
The closure statement expressed profound gratitude to what the company affectionately called its "Joanie Gals" worldwide – loyal customers who championed the label throughout its journey. Renowned for its extensive size range and vintage aesthetic, the brand thanked customers for filling their wardrobes with Joanie Clothing and helping them "look and feel the best version" of themselves.
The statement also acknowledged the talented team, skilled freelancers, suppliers, and partners who contributed to creating what they described as a "lovely, responsible brand." Directors expressed particular pride in having operated as an independent business throughout their nine-year history, maintaining their unique approach with resilience despite the challenging circumstances that ultimately led to their closure.
