5. How are you finding the footwear market currently? It’s variable, but better than we expected, the weather always has such an
impact which is out of our control. However, we give an excellent service and our customer loyalty is very high. Back to School was a slow start, but picked up and was very good.
6. What’s selling well? Any particular trends? Which are your best selling footwear brands – and why? School shoes always sell well as they are needed! Vans did very well this
year, as they have been the trend, Superfit and Ricosta are always very popular, as they are waterproof and robust. Start-rite is a traditional favourite and does very well too.
7. Does your shop sell other items besides footwear, bags, gloves, tights, socks, below the ankle products? We sell a small selection of reasonable priced kids gifts/toys , lunch bags, Kidorable raincoats and umbrellas
8. Any difficulties/problems? In the same boat as others with poor summer weather so low sales on sandals. We are always astounded by the lack of knowledge parents have about
feet and more so that they don’t notice or check their kid’s feet for problems. Parents that allow their children to use their shoes as brakes and then complain that the shoe is at fault!
9. Any tips on stock offers, novel ideas for clearing lines or advice for independent shoe retailers who might be feeling the pinch? Just be careful buying in the first place and if you’re not sure don’t buy it.
10. What is your favourite men’s footwear brand/manufacturer – ditto ladies/children’s brand – and why? They are all great, but Ricosta is definitely a staff favourite followed
closely by Superfit as they are so durable, quality is fantastic, great styles and I personally like the fact they are made in the EU.
11. How do you select your products – which criteria do you use / what are your customers looking for? Historically what works and what has been popular, but we listen to our
customers what they want to see. Always look for something a bit different as that is what our customers expect from us, but also quality and value too.
12. Which footwear/fashion shows do you attend, how do you rate them? We have been to Moda, but don’t have the time to go every year. It is good
to go every now and again to see what brands are out there and what the trends are likely to be.
13. Do you have a favourite footwear agent? Ooh tough one to answer! They are all really good, have worked with Mark
from Ricosta and Marcus from Superfit the longest so obviously have a really good relationship with them, and I have a great rapport with Tony from Skechers
14. Have you always had a passion for footwear? Who doesn’t have a passion for footwear!! However, I am passionate about foot health and well fitted shoes.
own? I can’t say my husband will be reading this!
15. Do you have a favourite pair? I have a real love of boots and I have a pair of Dr Marten knee high wedge boots, which are the most comfortable boots ever!
16. And, the next step? Any plans for the future, new lines, retail systems/new technology, etc.? No major plans apart from updating our website and selling on line. Recently saw the brand Froddo and am very tempted by them.
ShuZu Tel: 01252 54 85 85
Email:
info@shuzu.co.uk Web:
www.shuzu.co.uk
How many pairs of shoes do you
JANUARY 2013 • FOOTWEAR TODAY
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