INTERVIEW
“We have supported the Footwear & Fashion Live show in Birmingham since the very first edition and it’s always a really positive event for us.”
We also closely monitor consumer feedback and market trends to ensure our products remain contemporary without losing the character that makes the brand unique. For example, comfort continues to be a major driver of purchasing decisions, even in fashion-led categories. We are also seeing increased demand for
versatile products that can transition easily between different occasions. Consumers are becoming more selective, favouring fewer but better purchases, which places greater emphasis on quality, durability, and timeless appeal.
Q: How has the balance between physical and digital retail evolved for your brand? What trends are you seeing across the sector? JC: I think the relationship between physical retail and e-commerce has become increasingly complementary rather than competitive. Consumers often discover products online but still value the opportunity to try footwear in- store, and this really can’t be ignored. Successful retailers are creating seamless experiences across both channels, and we are seeing growing demand for digital content that helps support in- store sales as well as online conversion. We engage with the market in a big way via
physical and digital advertising, and of course we also participate in a huge amount of trade
22 • FOOTWEAR & FASHION TODAY • AUGUST 2026
fairs and footwear showroom events across Europe to offer our customers the chance to see in person our latest collections. We have supported the Footwear & Fashion
Live show in Birmingham since the very first edition and it’s always a really positive event for us. We always see our best customers there, as well as many new ones, and we’re really looking forward to exhibiting at the new show in August! It is so important to support these stockroom
events because they are such practical places to see so many people all in one go. Our sales team would have to travel the entire country to see as many customers as we see at Footwear & Fashion Live! This alone makes the two days of the show incredibly beneficial and rewarding.
Q: What opportunities and challenges do you see for retailers in the next few years? JC: The biggest opportunity lies in offering consumers something genuinely distinctive. In a marketplace that’s increasingly crowded, retailers that stock unique brands can create stronger differentiation and customer loyalty. And I believe that’s where we come in! The main challenge remains economic
uncertainty and cautious consumer spending, which makes strong product selection and storytelling more important than ever.
We’re seeing huge developments in
comfort, durability and sustainability these days with advances in lightweight constructions, cushioning technologies, and more responsible materials – creating exciting opportunities for footwear brands. The future will be driven by products that successfully combine innovation with emotional appeal and distinctive styling.
Q: Looking ahead, what are your key objectives and priorities for the remainder of 2026 and beyond? JC: Our priorities include strengthening our position in UK marketing and continuing to develop collections that combine fashion, comfort and individuality. We also aim to deepen our partnerships with independent retailers, while increasing overall brand awareness among new consumer groups. The greatest opportunity is helping
consumers move away from disposable fashion and towards products that offer lasting value, comfort, and individuality. Brands and retailers that can tell a compelling story around quality, craftsmanship, and personal expression will be best positioned to build long-term customer loyalty in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
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