Exciting Expansion: The Last Dedicated Cassette Shop in the UK Gears Up for a Fantastic Weekend Celebration!

In a remarkable turn of events, Mars Tapes, heralded as the last dedicated cassette shop in the UK, is set to move into a larger space within Manchester's iconic Afflecks Palace. This transition marks a significant milestone in the shop's journey, showcasing the enduring popularity of cassette culture amidst the digital age.

A New Chapter for Mars Tapes

Founded in 2019, Mars Tapes has experienced incredible growth over the years, defying expectations and the conventional rise of digital music formats. The shop's owner, Alex Tadros, shares the excitement of this expansion, noting, "After 7 years of growth, we are entering into our third expansion... one of the biggest units in the building." This new unit will not only offer an expanded library of cassette tapes but will also introduce refurbished vintage audio equipment and a Mars Tapes Listening Café, where customers can enjoy coffee while relishing the nostalgia of cassette sounds.

Weekend Celebration Planned

To celebrate their expansion, Mars Tapes is hosting an exciting weekend event on March 7 and 8. The festivities will feature live music performances, including a set by renowned DJ Dave Haslam and a special performance from the up-and-coming Glasgow band Cowboy Hunters, who will unveil their new EP on cassette. In addition, Horace Panter from The Specials will showcase his cassette-themed artwork throughout the event, adding a unique touch to the celebration.

Inviting the Community

Notably, the weekend will include various in-store offers on cassette merchandise and food and drink options, inviting everyone to join in the celebratory atmosphere. "We're offering food, drinks, and in-store deals alongside some fantastic live music... It's gonna be a tape heads dream weekend," expresses Alex with palpable enthusiasm.

This expansion is a testament to the resilience of niche markets like cassette trading, reminding us that while technology evolves, certain traditions endure and thrive. The vibrant culture around cassettes is not only preserved but celebrated, encouraging a new generation of music enthusiasts to engage with this beloved format.