The Last Dedicated Cassette Shop in the UK Expands: A Celebration of Music and Nostalgia

Mars Tapes, often hailed as the last dedicated cassette shop in the UK, is preparing for a momentous move into a larger unit at Afflecks Palace in Manchester. This significant expansion comes as the shop enjoys unprecedented success, demonstrating a renewed interest in cassette tapes amidst the digital age.

A Journey of Growth

Founded in 2019 in what was arguably the smallest unit within Afflecks Palace, Mars Tapes has experienced remarkable growth over the years. Owner Alex Tadros shared, "After 7 years of growth, we are entering into our third expansion." The new unit, located on the first floor, will be one of the largest in the building, a testament to the shop's thriving business model and the enduring appeal of cassette culture.

A New Era for Music Lovers

The upcoming expansion will introduce an enhanced selection of cassette tapes and vintage audio equipment, alongside the launch of the Mars Tapes Listening Cafe. Here, patrons can enjoy coffee while immersing themselves in the nostalgic sound quality of cassette tapes. Such offerings emphasize how Mars Tapes is not just a retail space, but a community hub for music enthusiasts.

A Weekend Celebration of Music

To commemorate this significant milestone, Mars Tapes will host an exciting weekend celebration on March 7 and 8. The event will feature live performances, including a DJ set by Dave Haslam and a performance from the Glasgow band Cowboy Hunters, which will debut a new cassette EP. Additionally, Horace Panter of The Specials will present his unique cassette artwork, adding an artistic flair to the festivities.

Alex expressed the sentiment behind the celebration: "We wanted to celebrate with all of the cassette aficionados that made it possible!" There will be special in-store offers, food, drinks, and an atmosphere brimming with music and history, inevitably making it a dream weekend for tape enthusiasts.

As Mars Tapes continues to cultivate a love for cassettes in an ever-evolving music landscape, it reminds us that sometimes the old formats can spark new interest in music culture, creating a bridge between generations of listeners.