Indie magazine retailer turns page with new store

A North East magazine retailer has opened a new print-focused store in Swalwell, Gateshead.

Unique Magazines, known for specialist and independent titles, officially launched its new shop with a community event. 

Guests were welcomed with coffee, conversation and a ribbon-cutting moment led by a loyal customer who supported the business during the pandemic.

In his ribbon-cutting speech, John Porrett, managing director of Unique Magazines, said: “Our dream has always been to have a magazine store filled with printed magazines where customers can come in, pick them up, feel them and read them. 

“We've got there, and our team has made it happen.”

Ellie Purvis, creative content, events and social media manager at Unique Magazines, added: “The last year has been full of exciting changes and challenges, but this grand opening reminded me exactly why we poured so much into it.

“The whole day of community and connection brought me absolute joy and pride in everything we have achieved - and it made all the hard graft so worthwhile.”

The new space, over a year in the making, is designed to inspire discovery, encourage connection and celebrate creativity through the joy of print. 

Visitors can browse hundreds of magazines, meet the team and take part in a growing calendar of events aimed at bringing people together.

With its strong local ties and passion for print, Unique Magazines hopes the Swalwell hub will become a go-to destination for print lovers across the North East.

Jessica Todd, customer communications and marketing specialist at Unique Magazines, added: “Seeing such a fantastic turnout in support of our local print business filled me and the entire team with pride. 

“It was a phenomenal day, and I'm so excited to see where this next chapter takes us.” 

More events and initiatives are already planned as the team settles into its new home.

To find out more, see Unique Magazines’ website here.

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