Which footwear/fashion shows do you attend, how do you rate them? There are hardly any footwear shows in Singapore. And we’re almost always working. My son and I would like to attend some in the future if we can. We do envy the number of footwear shows that you have in London. If any brands wish to send us samples, please feel free to get in touch!
Do you have a favourite footwear agent you can tell us about? We have many good ones! For someone based in Europe, I must recommend Andrea Orlando from Grünland in Italy. He’s been a great help, which we really appreciate as it must be difficult to support a small business like ours halfway across the world. I really must say that his level of service and knowledge of footwear is top-notch!
Any difficulties/problems? It’s a problem getting good brands in. Many established brands have stopped working with small retailers like us, and instead focus heavily on selling directly online these days. It’s challenging for us because we know there are good shoes out there, but we’re prevented from matching them to the people who need them.
Any tips on stock offers, novel ideas for clearing lines or advice for independent shoe retailers who might be feeling the pinch? We don’t do discount sales at Footkaki. We just work hard to add value to the brands we carry, so that customers appreciate what they are paying for. We’ve been fortunate that we don’t have stock that stays on the shelf too long. Trust is very important. We’ve built up a small following by being ourselves on social media. I think our customers appreciate the honesty and transparency. We don’t have loads of money to spend on online advertising, but we set a bit aside to do it so that people can discover us on Google and Facebook. Our customers have also been very supportive in leaving good reviews for others to read there.
What is your favourite men’s footwear brand/manufacturer – ditto ladies/children’s brand – and why? Grünland and New Balance. Because of quality, good width, and comfort. I’m also very happy with how affordable their shoes are. Most of us Asians actually have broad feet, and these brands have very good options for us. I like how thoughtful they are with the designs and features for their shoes too. We carry Grünland at Footkaki, and would like to bring in New Balance too.
How do you select your products – which criteria do you use / what are your customers looking for? Since I’m a Pedorthist, I obviously put support features and comfort first while picking shoes. Our customers come in two groups - those with foot problems seeking an immediate solution, and those who are on their feet for long hours due to work. They are always looking for something that feels comfortable at an affordable and honest price. They look for good value and quality.
Have you always had a passion for footwear? How many pairs of shoes do you own? Do you have a favourite pair? My son and I own many pairs of footwear, mainly because we are constantly testing out what we sell. If it’s not good, we won’t sell it at Footkaki. My favourite pair is an old New Balance 1260 which I wear with my own custom orthotics. My son is almost always in his Grünland Bobo cork sandals.
Any famous customers? At Footkaki, we’ve had some local TV celebrities visit. We don’t make any distinctions while serving famous and ordinary folks. We give everyone the best service we can no matter who they are or where they’re from.
And, the next step? Any plans for the future, new lines, retail systems/new technology, etc.? We’re always exploring ways to improve our service standards and the quality of professional shoe fitting in Singapore. I’ve been building the business with my son from day one, and I’m preparing him to take over the shop in a few years’ time. We want to build a sustainable and responsible business which will be around for many generations. I started Footkaki at 63. Obviously, I can’t be running the shop forever. As always, we’re on the lookout for other reliable and affordable
orthopedic brands to bring into Singapore. Preferably from Europe, as I am impressed by the quality of workmanship. Other projects include upcoming collaborations with local grassroots and Singapore’s Podiatry community, so that more people who need our shoes can afford them.
Footkaki, 50 East Coast Road, #01-35, Roxy Square, Singapore 428769 Email:
hello@footkaki.com /
owen@footkaki.com /
clarence@footkaki.com
Website:
www.footkaki.com Tel/WhatsApp: +65 8332 8733 Facebook:
www.facebook.com/footkaki Instagram:
www.instagram.com/
footkaki.sg
32 • FOOTWEAR TODAY
• FEBRUARY 2020
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