A heritage brand with Y2K resurgence.

Manchester-born brand Bench has been creating waves since '89 with its iconic designs and fashion-forward collections.

It serves the casual fashion fan with everyday essentials under Bench Original and Bench Lifestyle. Whilst capturing the nostalgia for Y2K and curated trend pieces with Bench Revival and multi-season collaboration with Urban Outfitters.

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Bench was founded in 1989 by Nayef Marar and Barrie Suddons in Manchester, UK.

Starting as a skate and BMX t-shirt brand, Bench was created during the thriving Madchester music scene of the late 80s and early 90s. Worn by celebrities including Liam Gallagher, Nicole and Natalie Appleton and Robbie Williams, Bench became famous for bold graphic tees from street-inspired design.

Expanding across clothing and accessories, Bench quickly grew in popularity with the likes of the Bench BBQ jacket and thumbhole cuffs dominating mainstream fashion. Global demand drove international growth, with 80 branded stores and over 2000 wholesale points of distribution.

Following a period of ownership change and brand re-set, the Bench IP was acquired by Apparel Brands in 2020. Under new leadership, the brand offers mens and womens fashion clothing and accessories.  

In 2024, 35 years of Bench was celebrated with a curated Y2K collection and collaboration with fashion retailer Urban Outfitters. Co-created collections reimagined brand favourites from the archives, alongside an exclusive capsule launched with activations across Manchester, paying homage to the brands roots.

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Bench began its journey with Apparel Brands in 2019.