Opening 16th April: Stamp – an update after a catch-up with UOE CEO Elliot Jacobs
Thame’s newest addition to the high street, Stamp, is officially opening its doors tomorrow, Thursday 16th April, at 11 High Street– the former home of Glynswood – and it’s already creating a buzz with locals. It’s exceeded our personal expectations and we feel quite excited.
Following our initial announcement, we caught up with Elliot Jacobs, CEO of UOE, to learn more about the vision behind the brand and what it means for Thame.
Stamp is more than just a stationery and gifting shop. While you’ll find a carefully curated range of products, the wider ambition is to create a space that draws people back into town – not just to shop, but to experience.
As Elliot puts it, the goal is to make stores “less transactional” and more about connection.
In a world increasingly dominated by online shopping, Stamp is leaning into something many people feel has been lost – the ability to see, touch and enjoy products in person.
“Bricks are better than clicks.”
It’s a simple idea, but one that sits at the heart of what UOE is building across its growing network of stores.
From Saturday lad to CEO
As well as asking about the vision for the store and UEO’s aims, we wanted to know more about the man behind the new store coming to Thame. If you get a chance to say hi, do – Elliot is a super nice, down-to-earth chap who really wants to add service and connection to the community.
Elliot’s own journey into retail started in a familiar way – working Saturday shifts in a shop while studying back in 1988. Over the following years, he built a strong foundation in customer service before moving into technology, gaming and finance software.
Now, as CEO of UOE, he’s bringing that mix of experience back to the high street, with a clear focus on innovation and community-led retail.
Some UOE locations across the UK already incorporate services such as banking and post offices. While Thame’s Stamp store won’t include a post office, it will soon introduce in-post lockers, adding convenience alongside its retail offering.
Learn more about UEO and Elliot here.
Rooted in community
A key part of the Stamp concept is collaboration with local suppliers and makers. The Thame store is already exploring partnerships, including a potential collaboration with a local wool manufacturer. We love this idea.
Where possible, UOE aims to source UK-made products – something that aligns well with Thame’s appreciation for quality and craftsmanship.
Upstairs, there are also plans in motion. The space above the shop is set to become something special, with early hints pointing towards opportunities for local artists and creative use. For now, it’s very much a “watch this space” moment.
Respecting Thame’s heritage
One of the most noticeable aspects of the new store is how it sits within the historic building.
Rather than over-modernising, the team has taken a careful approach to restoration.
“We’ll be keeping the wonky bits – it’s beautiful heritage,” Elliot shared. We love that!
It’s a philosophy that feels particularly fitting for Thame, where character and history are a big part of the town’s charm.
Complementing the High Street
With established favourites like All Wrapped Up already offering a strong gifting presence, some may wonder how Stamp fits into the mix.
Elliot is clear – it’s not about competition, but complementing what’s already here.
By offering a slightly different style and experience, Stamp adds to the overall appeal of the high street.
And that’s the bigger picture. The more shops offering quality products and experiences, the more reason people have to visit Thame.
Visit Stamp from 16th April
Monday to Saturday, 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
11 High Street, Thame
If you haven’t popped in yet, it’s well worth a look – whether you’re browsing for a gift, picking up stationery, or simply enjoying a slower, more tactile shopping experience.
Let us know what you think!
