16-07-2025
Socktopus to take over former GAK Music Emporium shop in Brighton
A family-run sock businesses is moving into the former GAK Music Emporium building in Brighton's North iconic yellow GAK Music Emporium closed in March, entered insolvency and sold its assets to will expand from its current Bond Street location and began giving its new building a major makeover on Game, manager, said: "We have fully outgrown our tiny shop so we have taken on the new premises, which is really exciting."
Socktopus currently has seven stores across the UK, in Brighton, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Oxford, York, Chester and brand, owned by Nick and Josie Starsmore, began in Brighton and is known for its unique sock designs. The new shop is expected to open in early August, with both sites operating temporarily until the Bond Street store is closed next year.
The move marks a significant step for the family-run business, which began in the North Laine and has built a loyal following. Ms Game said: "It is going to be a big change - much more space."The new premises will retain some of the original interior features but is being repainted blue."We've had some great responses from people saying it's 'Socktopus blue'," Ms Game added."It looks very pretty and quite in keeping with the area."Socktopus plans to use the larger space to host more in-store events and community activities. The GAK brand, meanwhile, will continue online under new ownership, following the sale of its stock, branding and website to
