Footwear-FEB21-P28-30 Retailer of Month_Footwear_Jan10_p30 22/02/2021 14:23 Page 28


Q&A


Cheryl Taylor, Editor, talks to footwear retailer Renae Cooke of Noble Lion Q&A:


Name: Renae Cooke Shop(s): Noble Lion


Brands: Bobux, Froddo, Vivobarefoot, Poco Nido, PaperKrane, Grass and Air


Hometown: Nottingham Family: Husband and 2 Daughters (4&6)


How did you get into footwear? Tell us about your background and your current business? I was looking for a new role as my youngest daughter was due to start school in September 2020, giving me more flexibility in my work life. 2 years previously I had had an idea to start a mobile children’s shoe business but investigations had come to a standstill as the business was going to be a mobile one and I couldn’t get supply from the brands I wanted to sell. Cut to January 2020 when I noticed a small retail unit in a brilliant independent shopping area was available to rent and suddenly it felt like there was a way forward. There was and still is lots of risk involved but we took a big leap of faith


and here we are now! I’ve worked in retail since I was 16 years old, I love meeting people and being able to be offer great service.


28 • FOOTWEAR TODAY


• JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021


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