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Alice’s winning design.

Stephanie Aminu-Edu at Dr. Martens’ Northamptonshire factory.

Stephanie designs own Dr. Martens on factory visit

By Christina Eccles A 13-year-old competition winner got a money can’t buy opportunity when she spent the day learning from future engineering talent at British brand Dr. Martens.

Stephanie Aminu-Edu worked with two Dr. Marten’s apprentices at the firm’s Northamptonshire factory to learn how fashion and engineering go hand in hand.

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Stephanie won the prize as part of last November’s Tomorrow’s Engineers Week, which encouraged young people to consider the range of exciting engineering jobs open to them.

And as part of the event, she used the skills she’d learnt to customise her own pair of DMs to take home.

United Nude unveils third pop-up store

She said: “It’s amazing to see behind the scenes at a brand I love.

The young apprentice engineers behind the company are great too, and I liked being able to put faces to the brand.

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“They taught me all the intricacies behind designing and making the boots and what was even better was seeing the young engineers making

Student’s creation is PETA winner

AN aspiring designer from Leeds University has won an international competition to design a vegan shoe, impressing celebrity judge Laura Whitmore with her creation.

Alice Lambert-Gorwyn – a fourth year fashion design student – beat entries from as far away as Brazil and the US to win the competition, launched by footwear brand Beyond Skin and PETA. Alice’s winning design, which is made from imitation exotic skin, faux leather and faux microfiber suede, will now go into production and hit the market in time for spring/summer 2014.

The materials used to make her customised design.

them to my own design.”

Marketing director of Dr. Martens’ Northamptonshire factory Simon Jobson added: “We love being able to offer great experiences to the young fans of our company.

“It’s so important that our customers understand the different processes involved in creating the shoes, and engineering and the art of industrial manufacture really is at the heart of that.

“It’s great being able to tell the story of our boots and shoes at our Northamptonshire factory and we’re delighted to have offered Stephanie the opportunity to customise her own pair.”

She said: “I am extremely passionate about animal welfare. I am a vegetarian and have recently made the decision to stop buying leather...

“I would love in the future to work for an ethical company, and this competition seemed like a great stepping stone and a fantastic platform to raise awareness of such an important Alice Lambertissue.”

Gorwyn

Shoe designer makes awards’ shortlist Chinese visitors grab brands at Clarks Village Page 7 February/March 2014

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SHOE designer Sophia Webster has made the shortlist for Dulux’s Let’s Colour Awards, a celebration of the most innovative uses of colour across Britain's creative industries and events.

Dulux creative director and head judge Marianne Shillingford said: “Colour has the unique ability to transform, uplift and inspire us all, but it is often overlooked and taken for granted.

Now in its second year, the awards recognise and reward people, places and brands which are renowned for their inspiring use of colour.

“So in a year that’s really pushed the boundaries of how we see and engage with colour, we're excited to be back once again rewarding the

people and brands who use this powerful tool at its very best.”

Other nominees on the list include WAH Nails and Roksanda llincic.

Marianne added: “From one-off campaigns and events, to people and products which have uplifted and empowered us, this year's shortlist is more inspiring than ever.”

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United Nude’s third exhibition and pop-up store at Selfridges, London

Premium menswear retailer High and Mighty has launched a new collection of designer and own label footwear, which will cater for shoe sizes up to 17. The collection comprises casual boots, lace-up pumps, trainers, slippers and high quality formal footwear; featuring lace-ups, slip-on shoes and boots. High and Mighty footwear buyer Ellen Griffiths said: “We are delighted that we can offer our customers such an expansive new range of footwear including major exclusives to those who seek fashion which not only fits them comfortably but offers true style. High and Mighty continues to prove itself a destination for men seeking fashion that really fits.”

United Nude unveils third pop-up store EXPERIMENTAL footwear brand United Nude has launched its third exhibition and pop-up store at Selfridges, London.

The exhibition – which forms part of the top department store’s Festival of Imagination – focuses on United Nude's ever blurring boundaries between fashion, art and architecture and invites visitors to understand the brand’s design process, while combining it with the ultimate shopping experience.

The display takes the form of a contemporary art exhibition, featuring shoes like the Masha Ma x United Nude shoe, the futuristic 3-D printed collaboration shoe with Iris van Herpen and the Fang

shoe, worn in the latest Hunger Games film.

Available to purchase throughout the duration of the exhibition will be the Lo Res collection and the coveted NOVA shoe, which has been designed in collaboration with famed architect Zaha Hadid.

Co-founder and creative Director Rem D.Koolhaas said: “We are super excited to have our own United Nude exhibition and popup shop at one of the world’s best shoe departments for the Festival Of Imagination.

“Imagination is the number one fuel for creativity and without it things simply wouldn't be designed. To imagine means to think new, to think outside the box, to dream and to invent.”

One of the three new Zumba shoe designs.

Fitness brand Zumba launches three styles POPULAR dance fitness brand Zumba has entered the footwear market with the launch of three new shoe styles.

The shoes, which are available in a variety of vibrant colours, have unique Z-Slide technology allowing the wearer to safely slide across any surface.

The three designs available are: Zumba Impact: For the highsteppers, stompers and hiphoppers—Z-Compress Outsole technology reduces the force of impact and then returns to its original form for the next impact.

Zumba Flex: For those who like to spin, slide, turn and get a little twisted—Z-ARCH technology

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maximises arch support, allowing Zumba fans greater flexibility to express themselves.

Zumba Energy: For those who hear a beat and start to bounce— offers a lightweight cushioning system that minimises energy expended during performance to reduce fatigue.

Zumba chief apparel officer Brian Ruskin said: “Hundreds of thousands of people have been asking for it – the perfect shoe designed to let you move in a Zumba class, or any dance class.

“The biggest thing that sets these trainers apart is the advanced performance technology that you can’t find in any other shoe out there on the market today.”

Manufacturer agrees deal BRITISH shoe manufacturer VIVOBAREFOOT has signed a distribution agreement with Heapsylon and their Sensoria Fitness line of wearable technology socks.

As part of the agreement, globally renowned biomechanics expert Lee Saxby will also be contributing to the Sensoria Fitness mobile app experience to help people stand, walk and run better.

The agreement enables VIVOBAREFOOT to become the first distributor of the Sensoria Fitness bio-tracking socks, which the company will sell worldwide alongside its shoes.

Managing director Galahad Clark added: “We are very excited at the opportunity to bring this exciting new technology to help progress natural healthy movement around the world.”

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Clarks Village outlet.

Chinese visitors grab brands at Clarks Village BARGAIN hunters from China and South East Asia are heading to Somerset to snap up footwear from traditional English brand Clarks.

Over the last two years, Clarks Village outlet has experienced an increasing demand from visitors for top brands, such as Austin Reed, North Face, Whistles and Timberland.

But Clarks Shoes tops the list, with Chinese tourists being attracted to shop there as they can then return from their trip with products for the entire family.

A spokesman from Clarks International said: “We find that foreign tourists provide a valuable contribution to our business. They come to us as we offer great service as well as the Clarks traditional product, steeped in the heritage of Somerset.”

Most visitors are coming as part of organised coach parties and spend the entire day shopping and spending time in the village’s newly created Restaurant Terrace.

The village has recently welcomed its largest ever coach group of over 120 Chinese visitors.

The new season brings a colourful collection of chic ballet flats from leading boutique shoe label La Paire. Inspired by the dusky colours of the Autumn night sky, founder Amy La’s designs feature a colour palette which reflects the blaze of hues seen at sunset; from red, yellow and orange to scarlet, blues and purples. Each shoe is crafted from butter soft Spanish leather uppers and soles, to the highest levels of craftsmanship.

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Sydney-based brand danYelle has arrived in the UK, with the London launch of a new footwear collection. Out on A Limb found out more – and showcased a few of the collection’s key pieces.

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Australian footwear designer launches first range in UK THE brainchild of designer Danielle DiNunzio, the 11-piece range has been described as classic meets cutting edge, with a flair for embellishment and a passion for texture.

Danielle explained: “I’m very excited to be launching my exclusive range in London, which is known for its incredible street style and instantly recognisable flair for fashion.

“I am a woman who consumes and digests only the best in quality Australian design and I continue this through my collections.

The 11-piece range has been described as classic meets cutting edge.

“It is a labour of love and I take this passion seriously. This art imitates my life and I am utterly humbled to share it with stylish women in and around London.”

Each pair of shoes in the collection is made in small quantities in Italy and all are fashioned from fine Italian leather and other carefully curated materials.

Heavily embellished, danYelle shoes also contrast colour and texture and are inspired by the designer's global travels.

All shoes are fashioned from fine Italian leather.

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Danielle added: “I only release an exclusive range with small quantities made per style. I source only the best materials.

“Only genuine leathers are used as I

won't compromise on quality.”

Stand out designs in the collection include the purple leather Akita platform bootie, the Karumba cut out shoe boot, Cobana wedge and Glitz Diva, which is studded with crystal beads.

To coincide with the London launch, the brand will soon release hand crafted wooden sunglasses, while its accessories line will be expanded to include large totes and briefcases.

A men’s collection is also due for release.

Brand unveils new website with range of spring styles

By Christina Eccles DESIGN Comfort Shoes has launched its online retail website with a collection of classic spring styles.

Petasil – fit for kids and a fashionable offering Page 10

The designs were created by president and CEO of the company, Ilene Greenberg, after her personal search to find a pair of comfortable yet stylish high-heels.

Design Comfort Shoes' patent pending, German engineered technology and European styling are aiming to revolutionise the women's high heel shoe industry, balancing comfort and style, while reducing impact and stress to the foot.

Unique design elements include:

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Sole technology – the unique materials in this patent-pending technology puts a bounce in every step.

The collection created by president and CEO Ilene Greenberg feature several unique design elements.

Toe bed and comfort stretch material – Design Comfort Shoes are cut to accommodate the natural fit of women's feet, preventing many potential foot issues. The patentpending comfort stretch material expands as needed for women with challenging problems such as bunions.

Footbed – Design Comfort Shoes’

footbed, with 5mm of material, cushions the foot from toe to heel.

Slip resistant rubber outer sole – a slip-resistant outer sole is a constant on all shoe designs helping to create a safer walking experience.

The spring collection includes three styles in nine colours and genuine leather finishes.

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Out on a Limb cover story

Editor’s comment

Christina Eccles Editor

Stories to start the year with a bang ...

THIS issue it’s out with the old and in with the new – and here at Out on a Limb, we are aiming to help you start 2014 with a bang.

From top tips on how to make footwear accessories a profitable part of your business, to details of an innovative ‘shop in shop’ concept which is helping retailers to expand their product range without the financial risk sometimes associated with doing so, this month we are focusing on the small – yet effective – changes you can make to ensure your businesses are on track to be the best they can be.

Speaking of new, we also find out more about successful Australian brand DanYelle Shoes which has recently launched in the UK, as well as discovering how forward thinking brands Dr Martens and Beyond Skin have given two lucky competition winners the chance of a lifetime to design their own pair of shoes.

Who knows, in a few years’ time, they may even turn into the footwear stars of tomorrow.

It’s also that time of year again when our attention turns to the shows.

Look out for our Showtime preview on pages 11-17, where we have rounded up the latest news from Pure, Moda and GDS, as well as details of the new – and returning – brands who will be exhibiting at the events this season.

And as usual, we will be out and about at the shows. So drop us a line if you’re going to be there, and we’ll look forward to meeting you.

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Petasil – fit for kids and a fashionable offering PETASIL is a must stock brand for Back to School, but is also fast becoming recognised for its wonderful fashion offering too.

Fit and quality are at the forefront, as you would expect from such a premium brand, but the styling, innovative colourways and finishes are becoming increasingly popular.

MD Petasil UK Chris Marrum said: “Our sales are increasing year on year and the feedback we receive on Facebook has shown us what a following we’re getting for our fashion offering.

“We’ve always been recognised for our school shoes, but parents now appreciate our stunning fashion styles that also provide superior fit.”

Petasil, now 10 years old, is going from strength to strength and the team behind the brand are upping the marketing stakes and helping support their retailers with a bumper promotion, which is offering consumers the chance to win a fabulous Petasil branded bike.

footfall. Stores will also benefit from a bespoke PR campaign.

In addition to giving each participating store a bike to put in their window there is also a suite of adorable POS that will give each store real standout and attract

“The Fit for Kids bike promotion is highly visual, gives each store a winner and we’re also sending out bespoke press releases to their regional press to gain further

Chris added: “We want our marketing initiatives to directly benefit our retailers and pull people into their stores (which will naturally benefit us too).

“The Fit for Kids bike promotion is highly visual, gives each store a winner and we’re also sending out bespoke press releases to their regional press to gain further traction. What’s not to like?”

traction. What’s not to like?”

This burgeoning fashion forward brand has even attracted more than its fair share of celebrity yummy mummy followers and is proving a real hit with certain footballers’ little girls – hardly surprising when the quality of the brand is considered.

All Petasil footwear is crafted from the finest quality leather and the soles are produced to be as soft and flexible as possible. Petasil shoes are manufactured for children aged 0-10 years in sizes 19-39.

For more information contact: sales@marrum.co.uk www.petasil.com Tel: 01604 876 800

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Award-winning designer Julian Hakes’s collection will be on show.

United Nude

Footwear and accessory brands all set for PURE PURE London, the premium event for progressive fashion buyers, will once again play host to the UK’s largest selection of footwear and accessory brands at the forthcoming edition of the show – taking place at London Olympia from February 9-11.

The fashion buying tradeshow has undergone a revamp ahead of its February edition, following investment from parent company i2i Events Group, and the show will see premium brands, emerging designers and trusted sector expertise brought together to a create a focused and inspirational buying experience.

At the heart of this will be Pure London’s five re-edited sections; Aspire, Agenda, Allure, Spirit and Footwear and Accessories.

Featuring a range of new, international and niche brands showcasing their AW14 collections, the footwear and accessory hall is set to be one of the best yet, with over 400 labels exhibiting.

Head of footwear and accessories Vicky Ogden said: “I am really excited about the forthcoming edition of Pure London in February.

“The footwear and accessories

“The footwear and accessories section has a truly international feel to it this season with many new brands showing alongside the favourite top brands from previous seasons.” section has a truly international feel to it this season with many new brands showing alongside the favourite top brands from previous seasons.”

Companies to watch out for include global footwear distributor and licensee Highline United Europe, which will be making a return to Pure London this season as the headline category sponsor of footwear and accessories, as well as sponsor of the Footwear and Accessories Cafe.

The company will show the AW14 footwear collections from its brands including French Connection, Elie Tahari, Luxury Rebel, Nylo and award-winning designer Julian Hakes.

Also returning this season will be contemporary footwear brand United Nude with its unique and distinctive take on current footwear trends,

while UK-based footwear designer Nicola Sexton will be presenting the AW14 collection from her eponymous brand.

Other brands returning this season include Portuguese footwear labels Fly London and Sofia Costa, Spanish brand Pikolinos, plus other brands including Moda in Pelle, Esska, Ska Shoes, Lemon Jelly, Mustang Shoes, Butterfly Twists, Ravel and Babycham.

In addition, Pure London will also play host to a wide range of footwear labels that are either brand new for the AW14 season or existing brands that have never exhibited at the show before.

Portguese footwear brands PintoDiBlu and Lisquinos, German footwear label Tiggers, French brands Celinho and LpD Shoes and Moccasin brand Minnetonka will all be making their debut at the

forthcoming edition of the show.

Over in the Accessories Hall, Pure London will also welcome back a host of brands who enjoyed success at the show last season.

This includes the Naples Chamber of Commerce in association with Proteus who, following on from a successful debut last season, will be returning with 10 brands, nine of which are accessories labels.

Other returning brands include handbag brands Nica and Fiorelli, jewellery brands Sam Ubhi and Dyrberg/Kern, leather bag brand Zatchels, Italian umbrella brand Pasotti, hat brand Stetson and glove brands Santacana, Gala and Duecci.

Vicky added: “The Premium Accessories section is shaping up to be absolutely fantastic and is almost sold out.

“We have lots of great brands in that section and also across the accessories hall in general. What is clear this season is that accessories at Pure London has a truly international feel with brands from Italy, Germany, France and Spain all showcasing their new collection as well as the best selection of accessory brands from the UK.”

Esska

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Mustang Shoes

Ikon

Lotus

Marian

More new brands sign up for Moda MODA Footwear is fast approaching and this season even more new brands have joined the UK’s national footwear show, taking place at Birmingham NEC from February 1618.

Moda’s Big Industry Debate series also returns for February, with two must-see debates taking place on the Sunday and Monday of the show.

Luis Gonzalo

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Naturalizer

Sunday’s event will focus on the footwear industry, with a panel of

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leading retailers and industry experts debating the future of footwear retail.

Monday, meanwhile, will see menswear’s finest taking to the stage with a look at how ecommerce has revolutionised business for some of the UK’s best independent stores.

Here is just a taster of the 300 brands that will be showcasing their very latest collections in Moda Footwear...

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GDS set for final hurrah ahead of its restructure

By Christina Eccles A FINAL edition of GDS will take place in its familiar format in March before the show changes to a new structure in July.

From March 12-14, some 800 exhibitors from over 30 countries will be showcasing current shoe fashion for the 2014/15 Autumn/Winter season.

The same location but one day earlier than GDS sees the holding of the sourcing trade fair Global Shoes.

Here 300 exhibitors will present their collections at the Dusseldorf Exhibition Centre from March 11 to 14.

The previous GDS concept will be saying goodbye with an exciting range – including the new shoe line Lara Hampton by Bruno Bordese – and newcomers in the children’s segment including French supplier Little Mary and Spanish firm Pablosky.

In addition to the exhibition stands

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at GDS, visitors can also look forward to a wide range of fashion shows, lectures and events.

The Federal Association of the German Footwear and Leather Goods Industry will also be presenting its awards; the German Shoe Prize and the HDS/L Junior Award, while for the fourth time, a key celebrity will be voted Shoe Wearer of the Year.

From July 2014, GDS will have a new schedule – taking place from July 30 to August 1 2014 – and a new approach.

This will make GDS the kick-off event, offering visitors a comprehensive overview at the start to the season.

Tying in with the new approach to GDS, July 2014 will also see the launch of a reworked trade fair concept: tag it! by GDS. The concept is aimed at international shoe and accessory manufacturers and dealers with a focus on private label productions.

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LondonEdge to feature wide array of footwear Dominating the trade show scene for 14 years, LondonEdge caters to the whole range of alternative lifestyles.

Year after year, the show is met with an exciting buzz and positive atmosphere, with highlights to watch out for including a host of eclectic brands on display, fashion show performances on the central stage, music throughout, body painting demonstrations and themed lounges.

LondonEdge Original represents over 150 hard-edged, punk, rock, goth and tattoo inspired brands, while LondonEdge Fashion houses 150 rock n roll, vintage, retro, pin up, burlesque and rockabilly collections.

Exhibitors at the event will include alternative shoe brand New Rock, YRU – a brand that caters to young, street-minded fashionistas who want unique, distinctive shoes – and Bettie Page by Ellie Shoes.

A FANTASTIC array of footwear will be available at LondonEdge’s 29th show, taking place from February 2 to 4 at London Olympia.

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Style meets function for new range STYLE meets function – the Romika collection for autumn/winter 2014 will once again live up to this motto.

Brand’s new collection suitable for all occasions GERRY Weber Footwear, a brand managed under the umbrella of the Josef Seibel Group, continues its successful progression into Autumn/Winter 2014.

The new collection accentuates the personal style of the wearer while affording their seasonal requirements alongside opportunities to wear the product for many occasions.

High quality leather materials, including glove-soft suede, nubuck and shimmering metallic, appear together with original details and subtle branding.

The principal seasonal colours are black, neutral tones, dark berry

nuances and cognac which complement the clothing line from the international fashion house of Gerry Weber.

Everyday and chic, individual and relaxed; for Gerry Weber Footwear these attributes aren’t opposing but complementary.

The sporty, elegant styles capture the spirit of the times. All styles are entirely made from high-grade leather.

Preformed, anatomically designed brand soles, memory foam, Sacchetto construction and internal wedges ensure excellent comfort that is only visible at a second glance but can immediately be felt.

Top-quality materials, new forms and fashionable colours give the range an innovative look for the colder months without sacrificing the excellent fit and function that always characterise Romika shoes.

The new outdoor products from Romika successfully brave adverse weather conditions such as wetness, cold and slipperiness. The popular TopDry waterproof boots excite with their youthful, fashionable appearance. In particular, the Davos range comes into the spotlight thanks to shimmering technical fabrics with a Nordicinspired look. The highlight of the new collection is a print in knitted look which can only be recognised as a print on the second glance.

Great emphasis is placed on functionality with front or interior zippers ensuring quick and easy access. The legendary Romi grip soles, in part featuring foldout spikes, guarantee a firm grip on ice and snow.

Always a step ahead of the weather with GORE-TEX® SURROUND™ styles

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TYPICAL spring in the UK: the sun has just come out and all of a sudden it’s raining out of nowhere.

Unpredictable weather is no problem if you’re wearing shoes with the latest GORE-TEX® technology.

Shoes with GORE-TEX® SURROUND™ technology have a special GORE-TEX® lining laminate that is integrated into the upper and surrounds the foot – both on top and underneath.

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The shoes are durably waterproof. In addition, on warm spring days excess heat and perspiration can escape not only via the upper, but also through the ‘open’ sole construction. Your feet stay dry and pleasantly cool.

The secret of the all-round protection lies in the micro porous membrane.

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The pores are 20,000 times smaller than a drop of water but 700 times larger than a molecule of water vapour.

As a result GORE-TEX® shoes with

SURROUND™ product technology guarantee 360° climate comfort.

With the new SURROUND™ women’s collection for spring/summer 2014, GORE-TEX® and its brand partners once again bring high tech to feminine feet.

A total of eleven brand partners

including use the innovative GORETEX® SURROUND™ technology in their spring/summer collections 2014.

Men’s and children’s collections are also available with this high tech construction. In all, there are over 300 styles available both in specialty stores and online.

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Mustang see huge growth in the UK MUSTANG Shoes are currently experiencing huge growth in the UK, indeed forward orders for SS14 have increased by 120 per cent on SS13, also orders for AW13 achieved an amazing increase of 274 per cent.

This growth has been achieved through the independent retail area, which is fantastic, as our stockists now cover all parts of the UK; from St Ives in Cornwall, the Isle of Man, Channel Islands up to Orkney Islands, London and almost every county in England and Ireland.

UK sales manager David Rudd said: “Our boots this season have been amazing, almost every day I receive calls from customers looking for more stock.”

Mustang – the shoe and denim lifestyle brand – was founded in 1932 and is one of Europe’s leading jeanswear and lifestyle brands, selling its products to over 45 countries all around the globe.

Indeed at one stage it was the second largest denim brand in the world, just behind Levis.

Mustang produces shoes for men, ladies and children and the collections always reflects brand values like true, authentic and urban. This year we will have sold over 2.8m pairs.

Mustang has its own design team based in Germany and these people take care of everything from design to production. They also work for several of Europe’s biggest retail groups, giving them first hand knowledge of current market trends.

Exhibition dates 2014: Pure, London: February 9-11.

Moda, Birmingham: February 16-18.

Belfast, Park Ave Hotel: February 24-26.

Limerick, Absolute Hotel: February 27-28.

Dublin, Maldron Hotel City West: March 2-3.

Waterford Ireland, The Granville Hotel: March 4.

Cork, Metropole Hotel: March 5-6.

GDS, Dusseldorf: March 12-14.

The brand promise – walking on air CAPRICE Shoes are known for their excellent workmanship, fashionable design and unparalleled walking comfort.

Each Caprice collection is made of high-quality soft leather selected and tested all over the world.

Perfect fit is ensured by continuous control of the lasts and flexible processing of all materials. The interior of a Caprice Shoe is fitted with the internationally patented OnAir technology.

Open the treasure chest!

For Autumn/Winter 2014/15 – Caprice's fashion trendy comfort sets the scene, using only first-class materials – a clear alignment, perfect manufacture and elegant detailing which are the ingredients of this new collection by Caprice.

The reduced colour scheme in the upcoming Autumn/Winter season product showcase

sets the focus especially on the materials and their processing.

This means for Caprice: smooth leathers with extensive finish, high class nubuck leather, casual nubuck models with a distinctive finish as well as bounded reptile prints.

Best-in-class partnership Hand in hand, Caprice offers excellent profit margins and is trade loyal. The brand offers British half sizes and two different widths in the classic and fashion collections.

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High quality footwear FRODDO is an Italian designed, Croatian made, leading children’s brand with 60 years’ shoemaking experience.

Froddo prides itself on providing the highest quality children’s footwear, ranging from sizes 17 to 40 and fuses comfort, flexibility and reliability with style. Its Superbrand status since 2009 is testament to Froddo’s quality and competitive lead.

AW14 is full of exciting coloured leather and patent boots with different lengths to choose from.

Waterproof is more popular in cold and wet winters.

There is also an extensive range of shoes/boots with detachable insoles which is ideal for replacement with an orthopaedic insole, or simply easier to clean and more hygienic for very active kids.

Daisy Roots is the UK’s leading manufacturer of soft leather shoes for babies, toddlers and young children. Sold both in the UK and exported internationally, Daisy Roots are the perfect first shoe. This spring sees a selection of new designs including Fat Bird and Duck in Wellies; both these designs are available in a boys and girls version. For boys there is a khaki green shoe with a cute suede hamster motif and a turquoise shoe with an appliqued orange fish. New designs for girls include a pink aeroplane and a white shoe with a red ladybird.

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Range doubles in size POD Footwear are back once again with their Podlers canvas collection for kids.

Bumblebee is perfect for those busy bees who love a touch of glitter on their shoes.

Providing high quality canvas shoes and great value for money, it’s no surprise that the Podlers canvas market has doubled in size. With super cute designs and sweet scented soles, these styles are hard to resist.

Owen is great for little ones who love all things sporty, and is available in both red and navy, whilst Mansell is perfect for those boys who dream of becoming a racing driver. All shoes have fixed elastic laces to ensure comfort and a perfect fit, whilst Daisy, Bumblebee and Owen also feature a velcro strap.

The collection consists of Daisy and Bumblebee for the girls, alongside Owen and Mansell for the boys.

Daisy is great for nature lovers, featuring beautiful daisies and butterflies.

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With sweet scented soles and dangerously cute designs, there’s a Podlers canvas shoe to suit every boy and girl.

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Shoes that can keep up with adventures KIDS can only have fun in sturdy shoes that can keep up with all of their adventures.

That’s why, as one of the most successful manufacturers of children’s shoes, Superfit pays so much attention to perfect workmanship and the highest quality materials. We take quality very seriously because after all, we take ‘big responsibility for your feet’.

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The AW14 collection offers shoes for all adventures, with gorgeous first walkers, sporty trainers, fashion high tops, stylish heeled boots, apres ski boots and fun slippers in seasonal fashion colours.

There is also a ‘back to school’ range for the UK and Ireland.

Superfit have shoes for children of all ages, with styles offered in sizes 18-43.

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In a special column for Out on A Limb, Caroline Collins, MD of ShoeString, looks at the role of footwear accessories in retail.

accessories

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Making accessories pay for your business ... window displays to raise their profile and position them as complementary items.

TURNING a healthy profit in the footwear market means retailers need to ensure they have explored every possible area of revenue open to them, including the sometimes neglected area of footwear accessories.

Move with the times Shoppers’ requirements change with the seasons, and whilst your shoe stock will reflect that, it may be that your accessories do not.

For example, in times of wet weather, raise the profile of your shoe protection and insoles range with an eye catching display or promotion.

Consumers are buying higher quality, longer lasting shoes than 10 years ago, which is good news for the accessories market as shoppers invest in creams and protectors.

Unfortunately, all too often, accessories are treated as an afterthought, haphazardly marketed and clumsily sold – if they are stocked at all.

However, most products require little space to store and display, offering a healthy profit margin – around 60 per cent on many of the products that we supply.

Caroline Collins

Prioritising customer service

who invests in their footwear, insoles, protectors and care products should be a key offering, whilst a younger demographic are more likely to be interested in shoellery, funky laces and party shoe products.

Independents are often valued for the knowledge and support that they offer. Ensure that your staff are trained and up to speed on the accessories that you stock and what they can do for the customer.

Make a show

The accessories market remains largely conservative, with our customers reporting that the staples of black round laces, black polish and protection products are their best sellers.

Prominent and imaginative display is crucial with location a key factor; instead of placing products behind the till where only the sales person has access, place your accessories where your customers browse, enabling them to look without feeling pressurised.

This means that the market is ripe for change. For example, the increasing popularity of shoellery: shoe clips, heel chains as well as designer sole kits and stickers, offer great potential and bring a real fashion-forward feel.

Many of our customers use our point of sale products such as the shoe lace dispenser box to display products in pin point areas around the shop. Investigate the available options and choose what best suits your purpose.

Know your customer

Simple adjustments can make a real difference. Our customers report that displaying colour products with the same colour shoes can be effective; we also advise including products in

Try something new

If you know who your customers are, it’s easier to supply what they want. So, if you are catering to an older, more traditional customer

Putting good customer service at the heart of your sales process will not only enable you to sell more, but your customers will trust your sales staff, are more likely to buy complementary products – and to keep coming back.

Accessories may be a small part of what you sell, but they can still be significant. Not only can they increase revenue, but they also enable you to offer the whole footwear package.

Ultimately, the key message that footwear retailers need to convey is that good quality shoes last longer and can be kept in great condition with the right shoe care.

Caroline Collins is MD of ShoeString who manufacture and supply a range of footwear accessories.

Trade fair cancelled THIS year’s Chic trade fair was cancelled after organisers M&S Exhibition Services went into administration.

Jewellery designer Sian Bostwick has created a new collection inspired by the original illustrations found in Alice in Wonderland. The wonderland collection features detailed and intricate silver heart necklaces, including a peeping keyhole heart with a hidden garnet and a tiny key. Other key pieces include the Mad Hatter’s ring, created from a Victorian teaspoon.

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Organisers said: “Every possible opportunity was explored to hold the 20th anniversary event as advertised but unfortunately it has become impossible to fund the venue, contractors and other costs involved in the current economic climate. We apologise for any inconvenience this causes and thank you for your support over the last 20 years.

“Organisers M&S Exhibition Services Ltd ceased trading on January 10 and is now under the administration of Clarke Bell Limited.”

Hollywood actress Camilla Belle has sparkled on the red carpet wearing jewels by Van Cleef and Arpels.

Attending The Art of Elysium Heaven Gala in Los Angeles, she paired her ocean blue Ralph Lauren gown with the Van Cleef and Arpels Evenor necklace from the Atlantide Collection and the Oiseaux de Paradis Volutes ring.

Picture credit: Mike Windle Getty Images.

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business + technology

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‘Shop in shop’ concept works well for Group

By Christina Eccles A SUCCESSFUL ‘shop in shop’ concept is working out well for The Florida Group – allowing the company to support independent retailers, while helping to boost sales of its brands such as Van Dal. The initiative allows retailers to order smaller quantities of stock – or try a different design – to gauge the response in their stores from customers, risk free.

Managing director of The Florida Group Tony Linford explained: “Independent retailers are under a lot of pressure for various reasons and the consequences are that there is now a very rapid decline in the number of viable independent retailers, which ultimately has to be bad for the industry.

“About three years ago, we looked at this and how we could help retailers and help ourselves. The independent sector is extremely important for us, so we have a vested interest in making sure they can survive and prosper.

“One of the problems they may have is cash flow. With the ‘shop in shop’ model, we said we could ease the pain by them only paying us for the

Tony also added that in the majority of cases, the idea is working well, as this approach provides benefits for both the brand and the retailer.

He added: “It does depend on the circumstances of the individual retailer – it’s not necessarily relevant for everybody. Some retailers are already achieving good margins, but for those who are more risk averse, it’s a good thing.

“We can also put some of our more contemporary designs out and see how they do, which gives us an opportunity, with no risk to the retailers, to experiment with new product types.

“The industry is changing very rapidly – and the big retailers are getting bigger. The traditional model of wholesalers working with retailers twice a year, selling them a collection, isn’t going to be the model for the future. Retailers have got to be open to working with brands in a different way.”

WHEN Overland Shoes began to retail G-Star’s new footwear range, it required a highly versatile solution that could easily be rolled out in different countries, was able to accommodate the language aspects of running a European operation and integrate seamlessly with the company’s STYLEman wholesale distribution system.

After reviewing a multitude of retail systems, Overland Shoes named Eurostop as their preferred supplier. Since first deploying Eurostop, Overland Shoes has created a highly efficient mechanism for communicating between UK headquarters, including the finance department, and the growing number of outlet stores across mainland Europe. It effectively links the company’s STYLEman wholesale distribution system with the Eurostop retail system to track and replenish stock quickly and accurately.

The Eurostop solution now covers six outlet stores in Belgium, France, Holland and Spain, with plans to support two more when they open next year and work alongside G-Star RAW’s footwear concessions in Germany in the next 12 months.

2014 – the year of the shop and the website

News

Annual tournament heads to The Belfry Page 27

By Ian Tomlinson, chief executive of Cybertill

click-and-collect has become a huge growth service for retailers.

2013 has been and gone, but was it an important year for independent footwear retailers?

Consumers now expect a multichannel retail experience from indies as well as multiples.

I think it was critical in signposting to indies what they must be doing in 2014. This thought is based on some startling statistics.

So, what exactly is multi-channel retail? Essentially, it is selling your products from your store or ecommerce website simultaneously.

72 per cent of UK consumers now own a smartphone, of which half of them used their phone to check product availability and buy products in 2013. People aren’t just buying online but they are buying on their phones in growing numbers.

With real time data, you can operate multiple sales channels seamlessly and offer the same services larger retailers offer their customers.

And what about 2014? Well I believe there are three main challenges for indies this year, and they are:

Award finalists announced Page 28 26

stock once they have sold it. We put a selection in stores, and in some cases a display unit, and invoice every week according to the sales profile. This also gives retailers the opportunity to fill in on their best selling styles.”

Overland chooses Eurostop

February/March 2014

Get an ecommerce site. If you have one already, great, you’ve got a head start. If you have not, then start now.

Ian Tomlinson

Promote your website – make sure people can find it!

Offer your customers live stock levels in-store and online. This will help you manage your business and increase sales.

The consumer is also changing. They are no longer willing to wait at home for online deliveries; for example

It might sound complex but in fact it is quite easy. For example with web based EPoS and ecommerce systems, like Cybertill, you can sell in-store and online seamlessly.

It gives you the real time data and makes managing your store and website straight forward.

Here’s to a prosperous, multichannel 2014 to one and all!

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Annual tournament heads to The Belfry Cocoon Partners’ Rob Sewell and Chris Dent with their award.

THE 69th International Golf Championship of the Shoe Leather and Allied Trades will take place from June 11 to 14.

Cocoon wins agency award

This year, the championship is to be held at the prestigious The Belfry in Warwickshire on the Brabazon and PGA International Courses.

COCOON Partners’ Rob Sewell and Chris Dent enjoyed a successful end to 2013, winning the sales agency of the year award at the Art Footwear International sales meeting in Alicante.

The €10,000 award will certainly help as they have just opened a new showroom called 333 and teamed up with the Italian agent Fabrizio Corsini.

The 333 showroom will be presenting four international agencies, presenting more than a dozen international brands.

It specialises in international men’s and women’s brands covering footwear, apparel and accessories.

Business + Technology

The Belfry is unique as the only venue to have staged the biggest golf event in the world, the Ryder Cup, an unprecedented four times.

The Belfry has become synonymous with golf and is a Mecca for both professional and amateur players and the championship courses, sculptured from 550 acres of lush Warwickshire countryside, have provoked some of the most dramatic moments in the history of golf.

The Brabazon is regarded throughout the world as a great championship course, with some of the most demanding holes in golf; the 10th (Ballesteros’s Hole) and the 18th, with its dangerous lakes and the amphitheatre around the green are world famous.

Last year’s champion Bernard O’Brien from Galway receives the Shoe and Leather News Bowl from President Gordon Wilson.

The PGA National is a new legend in the making, which has won plaudits from far and near.

A Midlands venue for the first time in over 50 years is hoping to attract more golfers and visitors and guests are most welcome and can play with their invitee or in groups of three, as part of the main championship field.

The informal trade dinner will be held on Thursday June 12 in the Lichfield Suite at the Belfry, and again guests are very welcome.

For further information and entry forms contact Rodney Gibson on 01162 434081 or by emailing rodney@leicesteruk.co.uk

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Date set for shoe fitting THOSE who joined in with National Shoe Fitting Week in 2013 really enjoyed the event and found that networking with both the footwear industry and other shops, clinics and schools in their area, garnered tremendous support and allowed them to educate their customers and show off their stock and their knowledge.

Because of the highly positive feedback, the society will be stepping up the promotion in 2014 and encouraging all IFRA members, CFHR members, podiatrists and any other shop who would like to join in to take part in the event, which takes place week commencing April 12 2014.

A participation form is available from the home page of the SSF website and can be found in trade magazines.

The College of Chiropodists and Podiatrists is endorsing the event and will include their logo in the promotional campaign.

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February/March 2014

Footwear Industry Awards 2014 finalists announced ORGANISED by Datateam Business Media for the industry, with the support of the BFA, IFRA, Society of Shoe Fitters and Footwear Today magazine, the Footwear Industry Awards – now in its third year – promises to be an enthralling evening, held on the first night of the Moda Footwear Show, on Sunday February 16.

This year's finalists have been announced and are available to view on the Footwear Industry Awards website.

Editor of Footwear Today Cheryl Taylor said: “The standard of entries, as ever, is extremely high and it looks set to be a nail biting event for each of the finalists.

“I would like to see as many members of the trade as possible join with us in celebrating the industry's success on the night.”

Echoing this sentiment, event director Paul Ryder added: “The Footwear Industry Awards is a once a year opportunity to reward retailers, people and brands for all their hard work, while offering a fantastic networking opportunity for the trade.

“Tickets are selling at an unprecedented rate so I would urge members of the industry to book their tables soon.”

Richard Kottler, chairman of the British Footwear Association added: “The British Footwear Association is encouraging its member companies to seriously consider directly supporting these awards which we know have now established themselves as fantastic way of recognising the achievements of the footwear industry.

“So many brands and companies have exciting developments to shout about and winning an award will act as a ringing endorsement of these “good news” stories.

“The BFA is looking forward to celebrating with all the applicants to all the categories on February 16.”

Laura West of the Society of Shoe Fitters added: “The awards dinner is the only shoe trade event that is worth donning the odd sequin for – even if you are a guy.

“This very reasonably priced event makes a welcome break from business and a chance to get together with like-minded people from all over the country and compare notes – or indeed simply enjoy a nice meal with lots of liquid refreshment and some entertainment to take your mind off business.”

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Range makes you take notice THE Autumn/Winter 2014 collection from leading quality comfort footwear manufacturer, Josef Seibel, may offer a casual vibe and effortless relaxed style across the ranges, but there is plenty to make you sit up and take notice.

Singer and fashion icon Lady Gaga has been spotted in a pair of eye catching boots from a Spanish footwear brand. The thigh high boots were designed by Maya Hansen for Ursula Mascaro – a family run footwear company based on the island of Menorca.

Picture credit: Ursula Mascaro

Everyday sneakers develop very stylishly for the coming autumn 2014 season. Fine python prints with soft nubucks or suede leather and shiny metal zippers serve as a functional style element.

Metallic leather appliqués, metallic lining and fine edging in a zigzag style add a touch of glamour.

Sporty boots appear in a rustic variant at Josef Seibel, casual

soles and fur trims underline the high quality appearance and colourful zippers give the new full grain leather boots a fashionable twist.

Functionality even features inside the footwear. The warm, skinfriendly lining extends all the way to the front of the foot in all models and the proportion of Tex models, providing a guaranteed waterproof membrane, has been expanded to meet the high demands of this women’s market segment.

The new Josef Seibel collection for men is based on a sporty look with plenty of functionality. The range is younger, more modern and more

Pure: February 9 - 11 2014 Moda: February 16 - 18 2014 Micam: March 2 - 5 2014 Contacts

As well as sneakers, sneaker boots and docksider types, Josef Seibel has sporty, rustic boots with slipproof soles in a two-colour appearance.

Tex membranes guaranteeing waterproof footwear and models that are partly lined with real lambswool or high quality plush, guarantee a warm and comfortable environment for the foot.

RETAIL SOLUTIONS

DIARYdates London Edge: February 2 - 4 2014

robust. Lively, well-greased leathers mixed with raw leather, subtle colour gradations, contrasting piping and highly flexible soles in a “dirty look” make the typical Josef Seibel expression in Autumn/Winter 2014.

GDS: March 12 - 14 2014

Drapers – Footwear Awards: May 1 2014

Tara Copthorne Shoe Event: March 16 - 18 2014

Pulse: May 11 - 13 2014

Fashion Access March: March 31 - April 2 2014

Home and Gift Harrogate: July 13 - 16 2014

TRAINING

Sales Tony Barry – Sales & Marketing Director (tb@scriptmedia.co.uk) Beverley Green – Group Sales Manager (bg@scriptmedia.co.uk) Avertising Contacts Tel: 01226 734333 Fax: 01226 734477

Editorial Judith Halkerston – Group Editor Nicola Hyde – Editor Christina Eccles – Reporter Dominic Musgrave – Reporter Editorial Contacts Tel: 01226 734694 Email: nh@scriptmedia.co.uk

Design & Production Stewart Holt – Studio Manager (sth@scriptmedia.co.uk)

Laura Blackburn – Graphic Designer (lb@scriptmedia.co.uk)

Circulation 01226 734695 (24 hour hotline) Email: circulation@scriptmedia.co.uk

To advertise in Out on a Limb magazine please contact Bev Green on 01226 734 288

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