Cheryl Taylor, Editor, talks to
Damian Wright, Gents Footwear Buyer at McElhinneys Department Store, Ballyboffey, County Donegal, Ireland.
Kindly tell us about your shop, its location and your customers? The McElhinneys story began in the 1960’s when John McElhinney as a young entrepreneur decided to bring a new shopping experience to the people of the North West of Ireland. Back in 1968 John purchased a Dodge van, sourcing only the best products and called door to door selling everyday essentials to the local community. Our family owned business is now a 90,000 sq ft department store which
employs over 200 people who are passionately committed to providing our customers with genuine honest customer service. At McElhinneys we pride ourselves that we are completely independent and source all our own product, our team of experienced buyers, travel the globe to bring our customers in store and online only the most unique and individual range of brands and designers. Every item is handpicked with our customers’ needs and desires in mind.
What made you decide to buy this brand? Paul O’Donnell offer high-end quality at a competitive price point. The collection masters the balance between classic and contemporary styling. The meticulous attention to detail ensures that the customer finds the perfect fitting shoe. The prompt stock service and stock availability ensures continuity of the offering in store.
How did you find out about the brand, where and when? McElhinneys have stocked the Pod brand for the past 25 years. This was prior to the arrival of the social media channels that we now know. The brand was brought to us on a sales call by the representative at that time Anthony Cassidy, who still represents the brand here at McElhinneys.
Which features of the brand do you like best and why? The Pod brand has grown here at McElhinneys as an easy to wear comfort brand. The brand has now evolved into our leading brand in the smart leather footwear category. The Paul O’Donnell collection offers quality, style and price. The stock availability and replenishment service makes this brand a winner with both retailer and consumer.
Which styles have worked best for you? The winning styles have been; • Boston – available in 5 colours • Phoenix – available in 3 colours
Have you recommended the brand to other retailers? Over the past 25 years I have often recommended Pod and now Paul O’Donnell to other retailers who are looking for a good quality fashionable footwear at a reasonable price point.
Please tell about the service you receive from the manufacturer? The service and support received from the manufacturer is second to none. Dennis, Jackie and Anthony are always on hand to answer any queries that we might have and to keep us up to date with the latest additions to the range.
Contact: E:
customerservice@mcelhinneys.com T: 00353749131217
20 • FOOTWEAR TODAY
• JANUARY 2018
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