NEWS


‘It is a genuine privilege to be able to represent the footwear sector’, says Richard Shetliffe, new CEO of the BFA


N


ew Chief Executive Officer of the British Footwear Association (BFA), Richard


Shetliffe, has been reflecting on his first few weeks in the role leading the organisation. He joined on 14 May, bringing with


him over 30 years of experience and knowledge in the footwear and accessories industry. He has held leadership positions at brands such as Dr. Martens, Ben Sherman, Vagabond, VF Corporation, the Dune Group and Havaianas.


In 2008, Mr Shetliffe joined Alpargatas S.A., the parent company of Havaianas, where he set up the UK operations. As Director for Northern Europe, he played a pivotal role in establishing Havaianas as a premium footwear brand. Over his 15 years with the company, he drove substantial growth through innovative


The Original Muck Boot Company marks 25th anniversary


F


or 25 years, The Original Muck Boot Company has been synonymous with


waterproof reliability, crafting footwear designed for life’s most mucky challenges. As the brand commemorates


its 25th anniversary, it has taken to the Isle of Muck, Scotland to honour its legacy and highlight the unique connection and shared values with this resilient community. Nestled off the west coast of


multichannel strategies, digital acceleration, and product diversification. The BFA said Mr


Shetliffe’s passion for the industry is contagious, and he is known for his ability to inspire those


around him. Most recently, he has been consulting for the eco-luxury footwear brand, LØCI.


mucky weather conditions every day. Among them are Magnus and his Granny, Jenny Macewen – whose family owns the island; they wear their Mucks every morning when they collect eggs together. Then there’s Sandy, the island


Scotland, the Isle of Muck is home to a tight-knit community of just 32 people who face wind, rain and


fisherman, who tends to numerous lobster pots surrounding the island and can often be found playing on the beach with his daughter, both sporting their trusty Muck Boots. The island teacher, Mrs. B, takes her class down to the beach most days to clean it up and educate the children on the importance of keeping the surrounding environments in good order for future generations.


Jane Wilson, Chair of the BFA,


said: “Richard brings superb industry experience and a remarkable record of driving growth in footwear businesses. He has an impressive global network and is well-liked and respected across the industry. The Board and I are eager to work with Richard as we pursue our strategic goals to support and serve the membership.” Mr Shetliffe himself also shared


the same enthusiasm about joining the BFA, saying: “I am excited to explore the opportunities that exist within the BFA and it is a genuine privilege to be able to represent the footwear sector. I also look forward to forging close relations with our members and key stakeholders to ensure that we are building a strong community that supports, represents and promotes the sector.” There’s more from Mr Shetliffe on


page 8… Since its inception, Muck Boot’s


footwear has been built to take on the most adverse conditions, providing hardworking people with comfortable footwear they can rely on. The commitment to quality and innovation has remained unwavering over the past 25 years, driving the brand forward. To mark its 25th anniversary,


The Original Muck Boot Company embarked on a journey to the Isle of Muck to understand what the brand means to the community that lives and works there. It has also released a Limited Edition 25th Anniversary Chore boot – a tribute to the continued popularity of Muck Boot’s iconic design.


DOWNLOAD THE FOOTWEAR TODAY APP NOW SPONSORED BY


AUGUST 2024 • FOOTWEAR TODAY • 5


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52  |  Page 53  |  Page 54  |  Page 55  |  Page 56  |  Page 57  |  Page 58  |  Page 59  |  Page 60  |  Page 61  |  Page 62  |  Page 63  |  Page 64  |  Page 65  |  Page 66  |  Page 67  |  Page 68  |  Page 69  |  Page 70  |  Page 71  |  Page 72