Independence Day for Trof as Northern Quarter institution welcomes new ownership

They've been serving the people of Manchester since 2003, and is now a fully independent venue again

By Emma Davidson | Last updated January 14th '22

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Trof has been nurturing hellish hangovers at its Thomas Street site since 2003. Known for its banging Sunday Roasts and exquisite beer selection, the Northern Quarter bar continued to serve dedicated Manchester folk during COVID-19. Mission Mars has looked after the venue since 2015, however, the bar announced last night that it is once again a fully independent institution, headed up by owner, Matt Nellany.

“As you all know – the family here at Trof have been grafting over the past year to keep the business thriving and our regulars happy!” they began. “It’s been our main focus to build this institution back through a tumultuous number of obstacles. In doing so, we would like to thank Mission Mars for their love and support this year and the rest – It’s been a ride.

“Nevertheless, we are incredibly excited to announce Trof will be cutting loose and once again be an independent boozer! The new ownership team, headed up by boss man himself – Matt Nellany have a lot in store for 2022 …. I’ll say no more. The Trof family look forward to celebrating Christmas and welcoming a new year with you rowdy bunch.”

Mission Mars has headed up the venue since 2015 after owners Adele Winter and Joel Wilkinson teamed up with the duo behind Revolution, Roy Ellis and Neil MacLeod. The partnership brought together their expertise with Wilkinson and Winter’s four venues in Manchester – Trof, The Deaf Institute, Gorilla and The Albert Hall.

A staple of the city’s boozy skyline, Trof will become independent again for the first time in six years. As well as being a top bar and restaurant, the brunch hotspot also holds events, gigs and DJ sets. Coming at an uncertain time for the hospitality industry, this positive news will see the company continue to grow with the newest Trof squad.