Shawclough & Healey October 2019

HOPE
Menswear
Womenswear
Celebrating 60 years
DENIS HOPE, one of Rochdale’s longest established independent family businesses is proudly celebrating their 60th
birthday. It all began in 1959 when Denis, who was working at the reputable Edward Taylor’s in Heywood, decided it
was time to start up on his own. With a vision and a passion for the clothing industry, Denis aimed to provide amazing
ranges, sourced from throughout Britain and Europe, coupled with unbeatable customer service.
He opened the doors to a small Drake Street shop in
September 1959, such was the success that the shop was
extended into the property next door. Years later other stores
were opened in Oldham and Bury, and a ladies department
created within the flagship Drake St store.
There has always been a family feel to the store, not only
has the business seen 3 generations of the Hope family
working in it, but it has also served to 3 generations of
customers. Many customers fondly recall shopping at
Denis Hope with their parents.
When Denis retired the business was handed over to his son
Michael. New labels were added to the already strong brand mix, the biggest addition being Hugo Boss. Denis Hope
are now one of the biggest stockists of Hugo Boss outside of Manchester City centre.
The business continues to go from strength to strength, there is no longer the Oldham and Bury stores but a beautiful
Men’s and Ladies store in Clitheroe now exists. The ladies department was moved 4 years ago to its current location
in Norden, and continues to flourish.
In October last year the flagship store was closed and relocated to Norden due to the decline of Drake St.
Incorporated in the move to Norden was a rebranding to HOPE Menswear, in keeping with the other HOPE stores.
Now occupying 794-798 Edenfield Rd is the Menswear store, formal hire department and the existing HOPE
Womenswear. Despite the changes and rebranding the stores still holds true to the original values and ethos that
Denis insisted on. Grandson Oliver, now in control of the Norden store, has recreated a welcome atmosphere and
pressure free shopping environment.
All the stores have an excellent brand mix that appeal to a wide range of age groups. Well known brands such as
Hugo Boss, Ted Baker, Oui, Barbour and Part Two are coupled with brands that can not be found on the high street,
some of which are exclusive to Hope in the North West.
Oliver and his team are trying to change some preconceived ideas that the store is either too formal or not for their
age group. ‘New customers frequently tell me that they thought we were just a suit shop, and that they had no idea
that we do things like Hugo Boss and Replay jeans, tee shirts and polos.’ Said Oliver ‘We have customers shopping
with us from early 20’s upwards on the mens side and 30+ on the ladies, we really do try and cater for everyone.’
If you are yet to visit the store, you’ll love what you find.
The new location for the Norden stores is proving a great hit, people can now turn the shopping trip in to more of an
experience, whether its food at Nutters or Catherines, a quick drink in the newly opened Norden Inn (a Hope team
favourite after work) or a trip to Wildbloods to stock the fridge up with fine meats and deli produce. Norden also
boasts a Personal Training and health food complex, several
beauty and hair salons, more retail shops and lies at the
foot of the stunning Greenbooth reservoirs. With such an
offering there is no need to venture in to town.
Why not follow the journey of HOPE on social
media, and keep up to date on the planned birthday
celebrations…
Denis Hope Ltd
denishopemenswear & hope_norden
10 To advertise call 07976 289967 or 07974 434793 or email sales@streetwisemag.co.uk