Q&A
Summer season – it sits continually within the top three. I put this down to the big shift with the brand moving into leather products at very competitive prices, and they have by far the strongest margins currently. On a personal note they have supported me through extremely challenging times, and that goes a very long way when you feel that you matter as a person rather than just a business account. Other brands that work well are Rieker; it offers excellent quality shoes and the customer knows and trusts the brand. Plus, we have a fantastic and knowledgeable rep, Kevin Sumner! We have also added new brands in the past year including Addesso and
Art, and although we are not planning huge volumes initially I believe they will add great customer appeal.
Q: What are your views on the footwear/fashion sector overall at the moment? A: I think the industry has changed a lot with so many challenges over such a short period of time, and unfortunately you hear about so many long-term businesses having to close, which is heart-breaking. Having been in retail for 40 years I have seen so many changes. Great
shoe retailers were historically all about service and product knowledge and helping the customer leave knowing that they couldn’t get better elsewhere. Now you have to think about SEO, social media, mail-outs, photography – it’s a lot to ask of any team member.
I think the biggest thing I’ve taken on board in recent years is don’t
give up! Changes help to keep things fresh and when you get it right it can make you feel a million dollars, and if you love your job the customer can feel it and it makes them feel good too! I do, however, believe that things now will level out in the retail sector
and we will never see the massive highs again in store sadly, but sales will grow steadily if you put the work in.
Q: How do you think the Government could best help footwear retailers at this challenging time? A: I expect I feel the same as most retailers… I’d like to see rates relief to be extended and VAT to be reduced – or at least revised for non-profitable businesses who need a leg up to establish themselves. Interest-free loans backed by the Government for new starters would be nice to see, or for existing businesses that have a proven track record that may need to diversify to be able to grow. I also think the Government could support retail events that reward and recognise small businesses to help motivate them… I could go on and on to be honest!
Q: Do you have any plans for the future? A: I would like to continue to develop my website and grow my social media presence, but I’m always looking for new brands to add to the store each year to keep things fresh. I’d also like to add an online loyalty scheme that sits alongside our instore loyalty programme, and to add shoe care into our range as well.
Contact
Just Shoes etc, 20 Harbour Street, Whitstable, Kent, CT5 1AQ. Tel: 01227 770555
www.justshoeswhitstable.co.uk
46 • FOOTWEAR TODAY • AUGUST 2025
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