The AW12 collection introduces styles with a timeworn feel, burnished leathers and weathered upper materials. The craftsmanship of the ccollection is exhibited through the attention to detail and fine touches included within the product.   The finish and construction of the 1958 collection exudes the look of casual sophistication and craftsmanship. Maximizing on Hush Puppies heritage, this vintage inspired collection is a true reflection of how the brands values of comfort are never compromised by styling within Hush Puppies.

A focus on new talent with the BFA Designer Collective 12-14 February 2012 | London Olympia. the leading edge of footwear fashion, the UK is famous for nurturing innovative and creative design    talent.  To celebrate this, the British Footwear Association (BFA)has teamed up with Pure London to provide a unique opportunity for brand new UK footwear labels to launch their collections at the show.

Following the administration of the Barratts Priceless Group, Jacobson Group has bought the intellectual property rights to the Dolcis brand. Dolcis is a great complement to the Jacobson stable of brands; it will sit well in the group’s existing portfolio which includes Gola, Lotus, Ravel and Frank Wright. 

Following the administration of the Barratts Priceless Group, Jacobson Group has bought the intellectual property rights to the Dolcis brand. Dolcis is a great complement to the Jacobson stable of brands; it will sit well in the group’s existing portfolio which includes Gola, Lotus, Ravel and Frank Wright. 

The Richter autumn/winter collection 2012 features diverse colour shades, which offer excellent options for combinations. Intensive natural colours such as copper, honey and camel harmonize with accentuated colours such as terracotta, ochre and olive. The extensive colour palette ranges from cool colours such as grey, atlantic, cobalt blue and violet to warmer shades such as aubergine, port, petrol, blackberry and dusky pink. The children’s shoes collection, of course, would not be complete without bright colours such as fuchsia, orange, turquoise, apple and red.

A celebration of Marshall’s life was held in Clydebank, Glasgow on 12^th July, attended by well over 200 of his friends and colleagues. Marshall entered the shoe trade in 1963, joining Barkers of Earls Barton, and taking over from his Uncle as the Scottish agent.  Marshall was known as The Godfather of sales agents, organizing stockrooms with military precision, and fighting for reps rights; he famously fought for agents to be paid commission on shoes ordered not on shoes delivered !  During his time, he was also the representative for the Florida Group- Van-dal Shoes, Callaghan, Paul Green, and Ara.   

The best of both worlds – combined in innovative shoes and boots for a promising autumn/winter season.  When the world’s brand leader for waterproof, breathable membranes and the pioneering maker of lightweight shoes – LEGERO – bundle their combined innovative strength in a joint collection there is no room for compromise. Here are the highlights that will create a furore! Legero outdoor competence with GORE-TEX® inside. It couldn’t be better.

This Spring, Lunar will be exhibiting the magnificent Autumn/Winter `12 collection. The range is the largest ever offered by the brand with an even vaster array of fantastic styles, colours, and fabulous new materials.  Our Elegance collection, has gone from strength to strength, and with this season bringing more stunning modern platform styles, along with a good selection of low heel designs, it is certain there is a style to cater for every age or occasion.

Expo Riva Schuh, the most important international fair dedicated to the production footwear sector, closes today. The event, held at Riva del Garda from 14-17 January, concludes its 77th edition with 12,513 visitors, recording a substantial performance compared to January 2011.

This year the Championship returns to Scotland for the first    time since 2001 at the North Berwick Golf Club and the Glen Golf Club.The illustrious West Links, and the North Berwick Golf Club have admirably stood the test of time, along with St Andrews, Prestwick and Muirfield it has protectedand maintained its traditions and high standards as one of the most celebrated Scottish links courses. Originally founded in 1832 it is also one of the oldest Golfclubs in the realm, and next year when the Open is at Muirfield it will be one of the main qualifying courses.

London – Clarks, the British heritage shoe brand, today announced the appointment of Nick Cullen to the role of Group Supply Chain Director. Nick will become a member of the Executive Leadership Team, reporting to Melissa Potter, Chief Executive. In this newly created role, Nick will work to unify the supply chain organisation for the entire Clarks group in order to deliver improved costs and customer service. His appointment reinforces Clarks’ business strategy of leveraging the scale of the combined UK, North American and international businesses.

William Lamb Holdings Ltd has acquired the entire share capital of Rushton Ablett from Paul Ablett with immediate effect. The two companies have worked together for many years and have shared the same liaison offices in China since 2003. Paul Ablett and Ian Ferris have joined the board of William Lamb Footwear Ltd.

AW12 represents an exciting move on for the Van Dal brand. Whilst a consistent performer in the formal shoe listings in magazines such as Drapers and your very own Footwear Today the brand continues to make significant progress in modernising its collection and mainstream appeal. This season the brand has invested heavily in broadening its collection further still with new categories including waterproof boots, autumnal wedges and heritage inspired brogues and loafers. All add a contemporary mix to their core offering demonstrating a wider appreciation of changing consumer taste and trends which have been the starting point for the seasons development.

2011 was a more positive year for the British high street than initially anticipated as widespread discounting helped boost sales in the run-up to Christmas. Footfall in December rose by 5.1% compared to last year, with local High Streets benefiting the most from the increase in shopper numbers, according to a report from retail footfall specialist Springboard, featured by Pure London.

KindredSole.com is up for ‘Footwear Brand of the Year’ at The Footwear Industry Awards. The awards promote high achieving brands and retailers. The brand was established in 2009 by Lizzie Leary and Beth Widdowson after graduating from Fashion Retail Buying at de Montfort University, Leicester.

For the 12^th year running, this February 2010 will see the return of trade shows LondonEdge and London Central to London’s Olympia National Hall which is joined for the second time by The Ledge Show, increasing their sector coverage from alternative and streetwear to skatewear clothing, hardwear and accessories.

BCM Imports, which has been creating footwear under the Nitelife brand since 2005, has announced that all new products are now being produced under the Erosella brand, aptly named after “Eros” the God of Love. Under the Erosella Collection Label, Erosella Footwear will replace the Nitelife-Footwear brand which will be phased out. There are two new collections which compliment the footwear, a Dancewear Collection and a Lingerie Collection.

With a great start to the new season’s courses this September, the Society of Shoe Fitters are going to go on booking the 10 month course through to the end of February until the start of their new 5 month course – 1st  March 2012. The new course format is allowing them to be far more flexible and in tune with people’s needs as they have reduced the number of Workshops from three to two, but are repeating them within the same year, so if students miss one they don’t have to wait too long to attend the one they’ve missed.  Another change taking place is the presentation of their qualification.  Whereas students who completed their coursework early had to wait until Workshop 3 to receive their certificates, goodie bags etc., now they will be sent immediately upon approval of their Tutor.

Nominations for the Annual  Footwear Industry Awards have now closed and voting began on 12^th December: Society Members can vote for themselves (if they have been nominated) or for others they would like to promote/reward (see award categories below) via www.footwearindustryawards.com/voting, or by email to: jandrews@datateam.co.uk. John has promised you strict confidentiality. The Awards are:

George Gummers, BSc. Hons London University, qualified as a leather chemist and spent the first part of his adult life working as a leather tanner. Before many years had passed, he became Managing Director of Millom Leathers, Cumbria. When manufacturing collapsed in the late 1970s George decided to open a shoe shop, as he felt his knowledge of leather and his obvious contacts in the trade would provide a good basis for a business. He opened Footlight in Millom in 1979. Two years later, in 1981, he took over the footwear retai1ers F.Dickinson in the centuries-old Cumbrian town of Ulverston, when the owners were retiring.

“Retailers are being squeezed by increased rates and reduced traffic, and something needs to be done to help our high streets,” warns Rupert Eastell, Head of Retail at Baker Tilly. “The Portas report provides a call to action at a critical time. Regardless of whether you love her or hate her, Mary Portas’ report should stimulate debate about the future of the British high street and if it leads to just one high street making changes for the better, it will be a success.

Smaller retailers in the fashion trade often just can’t compete with the website budgets of the big retailers selling online – or else it can be a serious squeeze to pay website design costs. Now, with brand new website building package Mr Site Storefront, new and established fashion and accessories retailers can create an e-commerce shop to challenge even major e-retail sites like Topshop and ASOS.

We've starteda new page in Footwear Today this month (Jan). Called Best Sellers, we're setting up a panel of indepedent footwear retailers to find out about their star performers. We want to know your five best selling brands in each cateogory, each month, starting from December '11. In return we will feature you and your shop in our Retailer Of The Month page. We need to know your five best sellers overall, for Men Women and Children. Also, for Men's Comfort/Casuals, Men's Formal, Ladies Comfort/Casuals, Ladies: Fashion/Contemporary footwear, Ladies Formal, Ladies Boots. For Children, Pre-Walkers, Walkers and School Shoes. Contact Cheryl Taylor, editor, cheryltayloreditor@googlemail.com, Tel. 01622 862962.

Splats is a brand new high tech functional footwear label with an urban twist. Launching in February 2012 with rainSplats – these ‘go to’ boots are waterproof, breathable and flexible making them ideal for Spring showers, Summer rain and Autumn downpours. Unlike Wellies that are clumsy, unsupportive and hard to wear all day, rainSplats have a form fitting insole and adjustable Velcro strap allowing kids to run, jump, climb, cycle, scoot and splash without fear of water running into their boots.

Rieker the world’s leading antistress footwear brand has taken inspiration from the East for their 2012 Spring/Summer collection. Rieker has used an array of colours and jewel embellishments that is set to be a huge fashion statement.

Rieker knows what men expect from footwear and for Spring/Summer 2012 versatility and comfort is key. The style is set to be a little more laid back with casual styling. Two tone uppers with stripes and textures are both big news for 2012. The shoes look great with linen trousers or shorts. Browns and taupes are popular themes but blues and greys are also making an appearance.

Next year GDS - International Event for Shoes & Accessories – and GLOBAL SHOES – leading trade show for sourcing – will be held from 14 to 16 March and from 5 to 7 September 2012. For the dates from 2013 various surveys are currently being conducted at home and abroad in order to identify visitors’ and exhibitors’ views and wishes.

JJ Footwear is using its Facebook page to announce that it is looking for UK models to wear its lovely range of boots. The scheme was first run in Holland and proved very successful, according to Nina Townsend, UK Business Manager, JJ footwear:  “All the ladies featured on our website are our customers and we have found that it is a fantastic way to spread the message about our range.

Clarks Originals role within the history of music and style comes alive once more this Spring Summer 12 as the iconic footwear brand celebrates a limited edition British Rock Royalty inspired collection of Desert Boots. ‘Rock Royalty’ is a quartet of limited edition Desert Boots reworked in a salute to four of music’s greatest moments. From the magical mystery of psychadelia to the shimmering swagger of glam. From the three chord trash of punk to the rocksteady beat of rudeboys and girls, the Clarks Originals Desert Boot has been along for the ride. So what better way to celebrate than with a homage collection to the defining moments that shaped style as we know it.

World-renowned shoe designer Jimmy Choo has been honoured for his outstanding achievements in the footwear industry. As part of its annual recognition of the world’s most outstanding Chinese designer, the Hong Kong Design Center (HKDC) has awarded Dato Professor Jimmy Choo OBE with its 2011 accolade.

The University of Northampton’s School of Science and Technology and Institute for Creative Leather Technologies recently welcomed Mukhtarul Amin, Managing Director of the Superhouse Group in Kanpur, India, to Park Campus where he signed a memorandum of understanding with the University.

Clarks Village Outlet Shopping Centre in Somerset was awarded the prestigious Green Apple Environment Award at the Houses of Parliament last week. Clarks Village, which is managed by specialist retail property management, REALM Limited, on behalf of Hermes and LaSalle, was presented with the award at the exclusive ceremony in Westminster on the 15th November. They received the award for their outstanding contribution to an environmental project that allows for the outlet centre to develop multiple recycling streams.

MBT is pleased to announce the appointment of Ben May as managing director for the UK and Ireland.Joining the pioneering footwear brand’s leadership team in the UK and Ireland, Ben, who also oversees operations in Spain, Portugal and Andorra, has been tasked with continuing to drive forward the success of the brand, which celebrates its 15^th anniversary this year. 

Retail sales figures show good news for the high street and even better news for online retailers
Official figures today reveal promising news for retailers. Data from the Office of National Statistics show sales figures to be considerably higher than the same period last year. With the weather set to take a turn for the worse and more people feeling a pinch in their pockets, online shopping sales have surged as people look for good deals.

Clarks Originals role within the history of music and style comes alive once more this Spring Summer 12 as the iconic footwear brand celebrates a limited edition British Rock Royalty inspired collection of Desert Boots.

Clarks Originals are giving music fans the opportunity to get their hands on one the hottest gig tickets of the year, with the chance to join Little Dragon for an intimate show at Rough Trade East on November 25^th at 7:00pm.

New ‘safe’ ballet style pumps are this year’s must-have school fashion footwear! A new craze for Mary Jane style ballet pumps is sweeping the UK as teenagers begin to heed warnings about the long-term dangers of the standard fashion ballet shoe. Teenagers are now seeking alternatives including The Premier Shoes For Girls from www.itsgotsoul.co.uk, which have echoes of the Mary Jane styles that took the US by storm with their classic and timeless look.

Heritage footwear brand Loake will increase its presence in the UK market with the opening of a London store this autumn. The new shop in Piccadilly’s Prince’s Arcade will open in mid November and showcase the English shoemaker’s craftsmanship.

Abingdon, UK, 7 November 2011: P2i, the world leader in liquid repellent nano-coating technology, has coated 1,200 pairs of the brand new Magnum H4H running trainer: V-Lite Intrepid HPi H4H, free of charge in a bid to help raise £10,000 for the ‘Help for Heroes’ charity

On Friday 4 November, Guy West, who founded Jeffery-West shoes with childhood friend Mark Jeffery in 1987, came to Leicester to share his knowledge of footwear design with DMU’s students. In An Audience with Guy West, the renowned designer delivered a masterclass to (BA) Hons Footwear Design students, talking about his diverse career and the lessons he has learned in almost 25 years as a men’s shoe designer.

For Spring / Summer 2012 Hush Puppies launches its second season collaboration with fashion designer Anna Sui.  The collaboration for Spring/Summer 2012, takes on a fresh and fun new twist to footwear that can only be the influence of the designer known for her hip and exuberant style.  From delightful cherry ornaments on colourful sandals to kissing fish embellishments on canvas wedges, the product exudes summer style with a fun but chic edge. The feminine silhouettes feature bold stripes and colours with combinations of materials including snake print and patent.

Sweatshop, the leading running specialty retailer in the UK, has chosen Footbalance as it´s custom insole and foot analysis solution. Stocking Footbalance further supports the retailer’s emphasis on service and expertise. Sweatshop staff will deploy the Footbalance system to more efficiently help customers select the right shoes for their own foot type and to customise their selection for a perfect fit.

"Retail Technology are pleased to be a part of the new footwear industry awards and delighted to be sponsoring the “Best Use of Technology/EPOS Award.”', said Kim De Sylva, "It is fantastic to see the support and involvement of more of the industry associations in the Footwear Awards, which will undoubtedly be a larger, more prestigious event."

Joining luxury department stores Harrods and Harvey Nichols as well as top British fashion houses such as Burberry and Mulberry, UGG® Australia will open a flagship store on Brompton Road, Knightsbridge on Friday, 4 November 2011. UGG® Australia, Knightsbridge will carry the brand’s complete range of footwear collections along with handbags, outerwear, and cold weather accessories from the autumn 2011 collection, ranging from classic styles to high-fashion footwear for women, men and children. The

There is a lot going on with the British Footwear Association – your trade body –

Spartoo.com, Europe's number one online shoe store, is still carrying on with its international development, with an increase of more than 350 % in 2011 in Europe, especially in the United Kingdom. Launched in 2009 in the United Kingdom, Spartoo.com sold more than one million pairs of shoes in the first months of 2011 in Europe. The group has also bought his English competitor www.Rubbersole.co.uk

Vanilla Moon are very honoured to be co sponsors of the New Footwear Awards

It all began one Saturday night, Glastonbury on TV and the WedgeWelly trio on the sofa.  V Festival was the topic of conversation, Laura and Sarah were all wrapped up in fashion, frantically discussing what to wear, hair and footwear!  So in this moment during a conversation about much loved high heels and rubber Wellies, WedgeWelly was born.  

The Footwear Friends Annual Awards are now in their fifth year and in that short time, have been recognised by the trade as an important way of spotting and rewarding British talent in the Footwear Industry. The winners in the various categories are:

"New York cool with a European twist" - Le Bunny Bleu, the New York based footwear brand that’s taking the continent by storm present their Fall/Winter collection in the UK in conjunction with the launch of their flagship store at Westfield, Stratford on 15 October 2011. The collection channels retro influences and attention to detail with hand knitted decoration and classic styles perfect for the weekend, work and play. Signature pieces include the avant-garde oxford brogues, classic ballet flats, vibrant slip-ons and innovative water resistant wool boots.

"Rieker is delighted be involved in these new Footwear awards and especially pleased to be sponsoring the Best Ladies Independent Retailer Award. The independent retailer has a very challenging task running their business especially in the current economic climate. Rieker is honoured to be able to put their name to an award that recognises this hard work. We are sure that the night will prove to be a huge success and will become one of the highlight evenings of the year for the Footwear Industry."  said Chris Gorrod, Managing Director of Rieker.

Nick West of the footwear agency Compass Footwear (responsible for Spanish brand Garvalin and Danish brand Bisgaard) is a big supporter and fundraiser of various trade events.  Nick was therefore delighted to hear that Datateam are pulling the industry together to reward many unsung hero's of the trade and has already enlisted Garvalin as a sponsor for the Children's Retailer of the Year Award. "The timing to coincide with MODA and knowing all the trade media are involved is a double bonus because networking and promotion is key to all our businesses" said Nick  "This is not a good time to bury one's head in the sand and hope the good bits will exceed the bad bits - you have to get out there and make it happen and this event will help."

“This year’s Footwear Friends Annual Awards is going to be even bigger and better than last”, proclaimed Charity President Richard Kottler.  “We have had extraordinarily good quality entries from young designers and entrepreneurs and I think our ‘dragon’s den’ team are going to be hard pushed to make a decision when they meet in a week’s time.” The fully sponsored Footwear Friends Annual Awards is now in its 5^th year and during this time has become an established way of recognising and rewarding British talent.

 Industry leaders welcome major Footwear Awards event: Commenting on the Footwear Awards – an annual event for the industry, run by the industry, which will be held on 19^thFebruary  to coincide with the Moda Show, at the Forest of Arden Hotel, a Marriott Hotel and Country Club,  only 4 miles from Birmingham NEC - Richard Kottler, CEO of the British Footwear Association, said: “The Moda Show is an important one for BFA member companies and we are delighted that a major Footwear Industry Awards event is planned for the coming Spring edition. The list of Award categories covers many of the sectors represented by BFA members and we are sure they will give the event an enthusiastic response and ensure the evening will be successful – and fun !

"I am absolutely delighted that The Florida Group has been nominated as one of 6 finalists in the 2011 EDP (Eastern Daily Press) Business Awards. We are nominated in the prestigious "Barclays Business of the Year" category, said the Group's Managing Director, Tony Linford

British shoe care company Cherry Blossom are pleased to announce the launch of Cherry Blossom Premium, an extensive range of shoe and foot care accessories. The comprehensive range features insoles and footbeds, gel cushions, foot pads and heel grips, for all year round whatever the season. The collection also includes a range of shoe care accessories such as shoe trees, boot shapers and brushes.  Each category is colour coded for ease of use and choice selection, ensuring maximum comfort in all types of footwear.

The 2011 conference promises to be better than ever with a variety of professional speakers covering occupational health issues; permits to work; a REACH update and very special presentations on safe systems of work. As usual, this event will take place at SATRA’s conference facilities in Kettering and the delegate fee is at the 2009 rate of £30 per head – absolute value for money! Details and entry forms will be sent to member companies shortly but, in the meantime, please feel contact elaine@britfoot.com for further information.

 This year our seminar will help you avoid the problems which can arise when

The British Footwear Association (BFA) Foundation Course in Footwear Technology – by the industry, for the industry – has been voted a success. The first year saw 28 trainees from ten footwear companies completing the ten-module course.  The feedback from the trainees and their companies has been enthusiastic and amendments have been made for 2012 in light of these.

Outline of the benefits of Membership of the Independent Footwear Retailers Association (IFRA): IFRA provides an individual forum for those whose main professional activity is the retailing of footwear.  Because we share many common problems – and opportunities – we are able as a group (not as individual traders) to find relevant answers and to assist each other in such areas as improving relations with our suppliers, relations with our staff, relations with our local authority and, critically, greater profitability.

Detmold, 15 September 2011: The Wortmann Group, based in Detmold, Germanyhas announced its final figures for the past financial year 2010/11 (ending 31 May). Group turnover rose by 15.1 % to 957.7 million Euros (GBP 816.3 million). In the previous year, total turnover amounted to 832.1 million Euros. With a record rise of over 125 million Euros, the business group achieved the highest growth rate in the company's history.

The next Society of Shoe Fitters course starts on October 1st and they are taking bookings now.  'We have an exciting year ahead' says Laura West, the Secretary, as the Student of the Year will be Awarded in February at the new Awards Dinner which is shaping up to be an amazing event, and we have two new 5 month courses starting March 2st and September 1st straight after MODA'.  

GEOX the premier Italian brand famous for the innovative use of breathable technology and the renown British shoe designer Patrick Cox have teamed up to create a capsule footwear collection for Spring Summer 2012. The collection is an exciting fusion of sportswear and urban chic and will be launched during the Micam footwear fair in Milan this weekend.

Physiological footwear pioneer MBT this season opens a new flagship store at Westfield Stratford City, London’s newest shopping destination, stocking its exclusive F/W ‘11 collection and offering its latest, award winning functional shoe, the Ari.

German shoe retailer Deichmann, which has more than 3,000 stores in Europe and the US and sells shoes at a starting price of £9.99, will mark its 10th UK anniversary with the opening of a second flagship store at Westfield Stratford City.  The Group also confirmed plans to open an additional 10 stores before the end of the year, taking its UK footprint up to 60 outlets. 

Helly Hansen has announced the appointment of a number of dedicated Footwear and Accessory Sales Agents for the lifestyle market. The new appointments have been made in support of the brand’s ongoing strategy to further increase its continuing sales efforts, and consumer awareness within this competitive category

Gola is pleased to welcome John Broe as a brand consultant. Broe joins Gola having

September 2011 The British Fashion Council (BFC) announces the shortlist of nominees for the British Fashion Awards 2011. The event recognises the most influential people in fashion today and celebrates the reputation and development of British fashion. The winners will be announced at the British Fashion Awards on Monday 28th November. The evening is attended by the most influential industry leaders, designers, retailers, models, celebrities and media to celebrate the best in British fashion.

Rocawear will launch their new footwear collection for Spring Summer ‘12 which hints at the future aesthetic of the brand emphasizing European trend relevance with its evolving style credentials. Styles such as the Chunk Wedge Chukka, Espa Derby, Prima Luxe, Volley Nylon high top, Volley Docker and Slim Hiker illustrate these references. The collection features high tops, hiking boots and slim low cut styles, which will cater to both, the European trend conscious consumer and the already exiting street style shopper.

Montreal, Quebec—“Change everything.”  That’s the slogan embraced by Urshuz, a new shoe brand which recently launched an innovative line of men’s footwear.  The uppers and soles of these revolutionary shoes are detachable and interchangeable, allowing you to create your own custom look by mixing and matching colors and styles, or even converting a pair of sneakers into flip flops or slides.  Urshuz even boast 100% recyclable soles.

GORE-TEX® footwear with SURROUND™ product technology is seen as one of the greatest innovations in the footwear industry. Its open sole structure and waterproofness surrounds your feet with climate comfort. In spring/summer 2012 it will be playing an even more important role in the collections of Gore’s brand partners, appearing in stores all over Europe for the first time.

Northamptonshire Police are seeking to identify the shoe that produced the impression shown below.  This image is representative and the exact shape and dimensions are unknown.  This footwear mark was recovered from a crime scene in May 2011 where two adults and two children were murdered in Northampton.  If you recognise this outsole design or can assist in identifying its origins please contact the Operation Nene incident room on 03000 111 222.

Introducing Innovative Move Frame Technology for UK Consumers - UK, August 26, 2011 – PROSPECS, the sports lifestyle brand of LS Networks, Korea, announces the showcase of its dedicated walking shoe line, PROSPECS W at the Korean Brands Exhibition, Harrods, London 28th August – 24th September 2011. Designed for the unique stresses and impact of walking, the PROSPECS W line departs from standard running shoes to enhance walking-based exercise and bring added comfort and support though its unique Move Frame Technology.

Superfit and Legero will be presenting their SS12 collections at the following Locations: Footwear Trade Shows MODA - NEC Birmingham, 14th - 16th August 2011 on stand S28ISRA - The Heritage Golf Resort & Spa, Killenard, Co Laois, 4th & 5th September 2011GDS - Dusseldorf, 7th - 9th September 2011. Hall 7a stand B6MICAM - Milan, 18th - 20th September 2011. Hall 10 stand D8 - D10 Stockrooms GATWICK - Holiday Inn, 11th - 13th September 2011 - CARDIFF - Mercure Holland House, 14th September 2011 HUNTINGDON - George Hotel, 27th & 28th September 2011

Amazonas, the highly successful outsole manufacturer is presenting its first line of colourful eco-friendly flip flops to the public. The rich and colourful Amazonian culture; its free-flowing rivers, green forests, intertwining plants and exotic birds have inspired Amazonas to develop a line of flip flops with sustainability, comfort and design in mind.

OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE BRAND MERRELL EXTENDS PARTNERSHIP PORTFOLIO Outdoor lifestyle brand Merrell has thrown its support behind Breakthrough Breast Cancer by extending its partnership with the charity into a second year. The relationship is a perfect fit, complimenting Merrell’s brand ethos which is to encourage an active and healthy outdoor lifestyle.  Merrell are promoting a line of footwear with highlights of pink to raise money for Breakthrough Breast Cancer, with 10% of retail price going directly to the charity which aims to fight the disease.

California Sports Company K•Swiss has introduced a new category to its already robust performance running collection with the launch of the Blade-Max Trail™, a hydrophobic, high-mileage trail runner.  Built on its knowledge from running, K-Swiss has developed its new trail shoe with all the technologies required to meet the trail runner needs.

MANCHESTER, 8 August 2011 – SS12 sees the launch of 3 new models based on legendary tennis shoe SI-18. Created in 1989, the SI-18 was the first tennis shoe to adopt a silicon cushioning system which was set to become the standard on the international Grand Slam-courts. The California Sports Company also introduces 2 new, exclusive "prequels" inspired by the brand’s archives the Si-16 and the Si-17.

FootwearPUMA Introduces A Recycled Suede in the ‘Clever Little Bag’  HERZOGENAURACH, GERMANY (September 2011) -- Sportlifestyle company PUMA introduces PUMA Re-Suede.  PUMA took one of the Brand’s most well known and iconic shoes, the Suede, and re-tooled each component with the highest degree of recycled materials, delivering sustainable style through an unforgettable classic look. 

The first edition of Expo Riva Schuh India was a success: 4670 Indian and international  visitors, mainly from the USA and North America, Latin America (Brazil, Colombia) and Europe (France, Germany, Italy, UK representing 8000 sales points); Asian and Middle East countries (Malaysia, Pakistan, Palestine, Arab Emirates) attended the event with its best offer of shoes, bags, belts, suitcases, wallets and leather accessories on display from 28 to 30 July in Pavilion 14 of the Pragati Maidan trade fair, in New Delhi.

Greetings from the President – JAN PARRY Of Parry’s, Pembroke Dock, S. Wales. How quickly time flies when you are having fun... We are just into the buying season and that should be the fun bit, but of course it is all too easy to get carried away and go over budget when each brand of shoes shows you another lot of cases full of wonderful designs and colour-ways. This is when it is good to have someone else holding the purse strings and ensuring that they are doing the maths as you go along!  

Clarks Originals has joined forces with Thistle & Broom, the unique Scottish luxury brand known for its exquisite fair trade Fair Isle knits to produce a very special limited edition boot.   Taking Clarks Originals ubiquitous Desert Boot, the style features a handcrafted and luxuriously soft Arran hand-knit cuff, reminiscent of a gentleman’s formalwear shoe spat. Creating the ultimate craft inspired icons to wear on your feet this Autumn Winter 11.

Skechers are pleased to announce the launch of their new Shop-in-Shop within Harrods. The new space opened earlier this month and sits within the fitness department on the 5^th floor of the luxurious retailer.

Hess. Oldendorf / Hauenstein, 22.07.2011. The business MARC shoes based in Fischbeck, Germany and the shoe company JOSEF SEIBEL are to begin a cooperation of their international sales forces.

969 miles, 13 days, 294,000 pedal revolutions and 28,800 calories after setting off from Land’s End, charity bike riders Mark Stevens and Gary Goude arrived at John O’Groats. Looking back, they both now realise how big this challenge was. Neither would describe themselves as experienced cyclists, so as the training and research progressed and injuries came and went leading up to the big day they didn’t know what was in front of them only that it was going to be hard work – and they weren’t wrong!

The new Spring/Summer collection by Piccadilly focuses on romance with creamy colours, delicate details and floral prints but still embraces seduction by using bold and vibrant colours.

The new collection is all about daring to try new concepts, new shapes and taking risks. The adventurous brand is bringing out lots of new designs including flip-flops, sandals, moccasins, new sole constructions and exciting colour options.

Colour is the new kid on the block and footwear experts Romika show us how it’s done...Although fur-lined boots will shortly be delivered to the stores, it is time to put those wintery feelings to one side and welcome the brighter thoughts of the spring 2012 season!

Finding the balance between style and comfort is never an easy task. Let your customers make the most of the great outdoors with footwear that will stand the heat while still looking gorgeous with new ranges for men and women from Josef Seibel.

Even at first glance, CAPRICE shoes leave no doubt in your mind – the combination of manufacture using the best materials and innovative ideas brings the collection together into a harmonious whole.

Today Greenpeace launched a new global campaign to stop the widespread and severe water pollution caused by China's textile industry, the largest in the world. Activists branded the world's largest Adidas store and a nearby Nike store in Beijing with the campaign's 'Detox' logo, calling on the sportswear giants to remove toxic chemicals from their supply chains and from their products. The demand comes as the result of a year-long Greenpeace investigation into toxic water pollution in China.

NEW YORK — Nathan Clark, the architect behind Clarks’ iconic Desert Boot, died on June 23. He was 94.

  The British Fashion Council (BFC) today announced the historic China / Britain Fashion Alliance; a combined initiative between the BFC, the Beijing International Brand Management Centre (BIBMC) and the China-Britain Business Council (CBBC).

Chatham Marine has expanded its sales team covering the South West and South East of England, Ireland and Scotland; and Denmark, Germany, Holland, Sweden.  The move will see Chatham widen its footwear and clothing distribution in the UK and Europe.

With the beginning of the new business year on 1^st June 2011, the Wortmann Group, Detmold, has acquired all the shares of the ara Group Lagenfeld in a+w shoes GmbH & Co. KG. This makes Wortmann now sole shareholders of a+w shoes – subject to the expected approval of the Federal    Cartel Office.  a+w sells its shoe collections under the brand name of Jana and focuses its activities on the comfort shoe sector.

Pure London now moves into its 30^th season and will open its doors from 7^th-9^th August 2011 in two venues: London Olympia and Earls Court.  Attracting visitors from across the globe, Pure London is widely acknowledged as one of the key events in the buying calendar

Florida Group Announce 2010 Results - Norwich based The Florida Group (TFG) are proud to announce that the turnaround plan which begun in 2008 continued to bear fruit in 2010. TFG, primarily manufacturers of ladies shoe brand Van Dal, had a turnover increase of 15% to £10.7m with an operating profit up 78% to £493k in 2010.

Los Angeles, Calif. (June XX, 2011) – The U.S. Department of Commerce and MAGIC are hosting an Americas Pavilion and Summit – “Sourcing in the Americas” – to highlight the United States and Western Hemisphere supply chain network.  “Sourcing in the Americas” will showcase apparel, footwear, fabric and yarn mills, trims/component suppliers, and service providers, as well as promote business and investment in the Western Hemisphere.

Lindsay Phillips launches Winter 2011 collection. This seasons range includes, interchangeable snap flip-flops, all new ballet flats, kitten heels, espadrilles and wedges! This array of footwear for women and children, not only allows the consumer to co-ordinate their outfit with ease, but also to pack and store less when travelling!

Featuring over 995 brands and collections and with over 19,200* buyers attending, Cushe Footwear were proud to launch their SS12 collection at Pitti Uomo last week and the British born Footwear brand were thrilled to receive the accolade of best new product in show presented by La Gazzetta dello Sport.

David Price, owner and founder of the well known footwear brands Cosyfeet and Walktall, has sold the parent company Foot Shop Ltd, for an undisclosed sum, to its current Executive Board.

Featuring a mix of vibrant colours, playful patterns and classic, very wearable timeless shoe shapes, Yull puts the style back into any step. With names such as ‘Ascot’, ‘Green Park’, ‘Silverstone’ and ‘Hoxton’, each design has been inspired by a British place or pastime and with a patriotic wink, each shoe is emblazoned with a small Union Jack flag on its base.

VF Corporation (NYSE: VFC), a leader in branded lifestyle apparel, and The Timberland Company (“Timberland”; NYSE: TBL) today jointly announced that they have signed a definitive merger agreement. VF will pay Timberland shareholders $43 per share, representing a total enterprise value of approximately $2 billion net of cash acquired. The merger agreement was unanimously approved by both companies’ Boards of Directors.

Jacobson Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Jon Paul Grogan to the position of sales executive for the Babycham footwear brand. Grogan will be responsible for selling Babycham branded footwear and accessories to key, targeted accounts

Wanting to reward their customers loyalty, Jacobson Group recently launched a competition to their customer database. An opportunity was given for the chance for a weekend break for two people, in a UK location of their choice.

Global Sport and Outdoor Company HI-TEC are celebrating the grand opening of their Amsterdam Headquarters. During the spectacular launch event held on the 9^th May, Chairman and Founder, Frank van Wezel, was joined on stage by his entire family to proudly announce the opening of the brand new, state-of-the-art, 3000 square foot facilities.

Stitch, the dedicated menswear and accessories trade show, has secured an exciting selection of footwear brands to show at their SS12 event this August 2011, at the larger, new and improved Earls Court 2 venue.

London, UK: 14 June 2011: ASICS has today been unveiled as the official sportswear and running shoe partner of the Bupa Great Run Series. The three year sponsorship package will see ASICS, the market leader in the performance running footwear market, partner with the world’s biggest running programme. ASICS will display, promote and sell products at some of the largest running events in the UK and will create a dedicated area on the Great Run website to give product and training advice for runners.

Sarah comes from a strong sales background and is well known within ths Wolverine group after contributing to the Wolverine business since 2003 ,where she has represented the UK sales of the Hush Puppies and Cushe brands.

Chatham Marine will launch its spring/summer 2012 footwear, and re-launch its entire clothing line at MODAStand Y7. The collection includes a new G2 clothing range, leveraging the success of Chatham’s G2 footwear, which features a unique two year guarantee.

LEICESTERSHIRE’S  shoe care supplier and lace manufacturer, Shoe-String have embarked on an exciting new partnership with German shoe shine and sole cleaning machine manufacturer, Heute, to become the exclusive UK distributor of these world renown machines.

Love From Australia  design crew, announce their first Spring/Summer Collection forAW12. The luxury brand, famous for its customised sheepskin boots will celebrate its 10th  season anniversary by offering stockists printed suede espadrilles, soft lambs leather clogs and jeweled sandals as well as a fabulous ‘festival’ range of sheepskin boots with strong rubber soles and reinforced toes & heels.

The Jones Group Inc. has acquired Kurt Geiger, Europe’s largest luxury shoe retailer based in the United Kingdom, from Graphite Capital, a leading UK mid-market private equity firm, for approximately $350 million (or £215 million) in cash, inclusive of debt acquired.  The transaction, which was financed with cash on hand, is expected to be immediately accretive to earnings per share, exclusive of any required purchase accounting adjustments.

The Josef Seibel Group has expanded its Hungarian shoe production capacity in Csenger with an investment worth €4.44 million. The boost was necessitated because the group has decided, as a result of increasing costs and more limited production control, to transfer part of its manufacturing back from Asia and Moldova to the Josef Seibel Group Company based in Hungary.

The sixth Prima Solutions Adventure Challenge supported by Footwear Today took place in scenic Cannock Chase on 21 May, raising an incredible £63,895 for CARE International.

RUBY AND ED IS DELIGHTED TO PRESENT THE NEW AUTUMN WINTER COLLECTION

Unlike regular wellingtons, Muddies™ are warm, durable, insulated Chloroprene boots. They will keep kid’s feet warm and their faces smiling. In a range of fun and vibrant colours these innovative boots are as every bit technical as an adult walking boot. With three different ranges; Icicle, Puddle and Luge there is a boot for every child. Icicle comes with a fleece lining and it is suitable for temperatures down to -10°. Luge and Puddle both contain a terry towelling lining and all ranges have hands-free removal for kids and parents alike with their kick rims functionality

Clarks Originals and Thistle & Broom previewed the results of their 10-month long collaboration for AW11/12 ladies collection, a limited edition take on Clarks ubiquitous Desert Boot featuring a hand-knit shoe ‘cuff’ reminiscent of an Arran jumper. 

The Rocket Dog footwear collection for Spring/Summer 2012 is a fantastic mix of colours, textures, prints and beautiful finishing touches. Ranging from beach flats through sporty pumps to glamorous heels, the collection encapsulates the Californian roots of the brand and delivers fantastic footwear for the discerning footwear buyer.

Rebecca Gray a 26 year old ethical entrepreneur and founder of Nottingham based fair trade fashion and green products company Fresh Cargo, has re-invented a hundred years of Maasai Warrior sandal making in order to support the Maasai community and globalise recycled tyre flip flops.

Stay light on your feet with Redfoot Man, the super stylish and superlight folding loafer from Redfoot, creators of the original folding shoe. Combining sleek style andintelligent design into one very compact package, Redfoot Man is the ultimate purchase or gift for business travelers, jetsetters – or any man that likes to travel light. Arguably the most technically advanced footwear in the world, this luxurious leather loafer features Redfoot’s patented split-sole technology, allowing the shoe to be strong and durable, yet fold completely in half.  

 
Following the success of Pretty Green’s Desert Boot, the straight-talking British clothing label is proud to announce the release of its new footwear collection. Subtle, stylish and versatile, the new collection is a combination of easy slip-ons, casual canvas plimsolls and smart suede lace-ups.
 

The Josef Seibel Group, which recently made a big move into the retail sector with the acquisition of a major stake in the Bahner/Leiser group of Germany, has opened its first German multi-brand Josef Seibel & Friends stores in Dortmund, Germany and Leicester, UK. Besides its own brands, Josef Seibel and Romika, the stores also carry others such as Gabor, Paul Green, Marc and Birkenstock. The group has, up until now, been running similar stores only outsides its home market with four stores in Moscow

~Deborah Meaden visits people starting up businesses using loans through new micro-lending website lendwithcare.org ~ Dragons’ Den’s Deborah Meaden came face to face with entrepreneurs who she described as ‘inspirational’ during a recent trip to Cambodia with leading aid and development agency CARE International UK.
 

Franklin, TN – April 5, 2011 – Mephisto USA is pleased to announce the opening of its newest flagship store in New York City.The fantastic new store is located at 1040 3rd Avenue - between 61st and 62nd Streets. “Opening a location in this premier market will allow us to reach out to new customers as well as Mephisto aficionados. With our superior-quality products and personalized service, the New York shoe shopping experience will reach a fresh new level,” said Rusty Hall, President and CEO of MEPHISTO USA

SHOE-STRING LACES LTD, UK distributor of the premium quality shoe care brand Woly are proud to unveil the sophisticated new design of Woly packaging. To help celebrate 80 successful years of Woly, the brand has been redesigned with a refreshing change of logo and colour, whilst still keeping the high quality products and trust that our customers have in this innovative brand.

21 May 2011: Challenge yourself and challenge poverty in the Prima Solutions Adventure Challenge. A marathon distance on foot, bike and canoe in scenic Cannock Chase, Staffordshire for fashion and retail industry professionals. Supporting leading aid and development charity CARE International www.carechallenge.org.uk/primasolutions 020 7934 9470.

The unique fashion accessory event Boutique by Chic has announced their move to a brand new venue in Manchester: Event City which is owned by and adjacent to the spectacular Trafford Centre, which at 28,000 sq.m is the second largest exhibition venue outside London, benefitting from extremely good access, free parking and a wealth of superb restaurants, hotels, bars and extensive facilities for families, including cinemas, skiing, high wire aerial adventures, Legoland, bowling, golf driving range etc... all on-site!

The City of Manchester itself is close by and renowned for it’s friendly atmosphere, biggest choice of theatres outside the West End, fabulous museums, concert halls, art galleries and of course the legendary nightlife with thousands of bars and restaurants to suit every taste. Shuttle buses run regularly from the city to the Trafford centre and taxi’s are quick and inexpensive too.

The  July edition of Chic, The UK’s dedicated handbag, accessory and travel goods fair is moving to thethree brand new halls at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry. Many visitors and exhibitors recall the   earlyChicshowswith fondness when it was held at the National Motorcycle Museum. Spreading the showacross  three intimate halls will create a more interesting buying experience reminiscent of the former ambienceas each hall has a different feel. There is an exclusive entrance with parking even closer than before and luxurious bar, restaurant and toilet facilities. As always the line up of brands features some of the biggest names in the industry plus many that do not show at any other UK show.

Brand’s most technically advanced shoe, the Ari, is recognized for design excellence   MBT is proud to announce that the Ari, the inaugural style in the Brand’s new “Ultimate” category, garnered this year’s red dot award for product design— the first shoe in the physiological footwear arena to do so. The award is just the latest example of MBT’s leadership and expertise in making footwear that provides the perfect blend of function and style.

Kids Shoe Factory has teamed up with the Yorkshire based children’s charity Candle Lighters to help raise money for the services they provide to young cancer patients and their families here in Yorkshire. Kids Shoe Factory will be sponsoring the annual Candlelighters Fun Run that will be held at Wetherby Rugby Club on 22^nd May 2011. The event will involve a fun packed family 2km run and a 5km run for the competitive folk amongst us. 

Functional footwear pioneer, MBT launched their flagship stand alone store at Westfield, London today, March 9^th. The 28 sq m store is MBT’s first mono brand store in London. Designed in house, the store reflects the brand’s international store portfolio, featuring the white and red logo and the brand’s unique Masai sensor on fixtures and fittings.  The 28 sq m store is MBT’s first mono brand store in London. Designed in house, the store reflects the brand’s international store portfolio, featuring the white and red logo and the brand’s unique Masai sensor on fixtures and fittings.

Following a successful launch into the fashion sector, Scarpa has now extended its lifestyle range for winter 2011 to offer a more complete collection for high street retailers. The new season’s range will now include the Mojito Snow, Nomos and Logic, as well as the Caipirinha, Cosmopolitan and Mojito, all offering the same quality and craftsmanship synonymous with the Scarpa brand.  With the lifestyle offering, consumers will benefit from the comfort and fit associated with Scarpa footwear in the hills and mountains, whilst pounding the pavements of the high street and shopping malls of the UK’s cities.

Thierry Rabotin firmly believes that natural materials are essential and irreplaceable.

Record numbers of buyers have been registering for the Spring Off-Price Show (13th-14th March, Olympia, London), where the newest addition to the event is The Village, a special new zone within the show for buyers to meet up-and-coming companies. The Village promises to be a vibrant and bustling area with trendy ranges of clothing, footwear, lingerie, jewellery, hats and bags on offer. Although situated on the main show floor, The Village will have its own entrance and café  and aims to be an intimate shop window for buyers looking to view great product from new suppliers.

A multitude of contemporary and respected retailers were attracted to London Olympia in February to the highly regarded Pure exhibition.  Buyers en masse were drawn to the Ravel stand that was debuting its irresistible autumn/winter 2011 collection.  As such, the brand is delighted to report that Pure was its best UK exhibition since the re-launch under Jacobson Group in 2008.

Padders No 1 Brand Padders were once again delighted to be voted 'Best Men's Brand' for the 5th year running at the IFRA awards dinner on Sunday 20 February at The Hilton Metropole Hotel, NEC Birmingham. Padders were also nominated for the 'Best Ladies Brand', 'Best Customer Service' and 'Best Comfort Brand' categories. The awards are presented by IFRA (Independent Footwear Retailers Association) and voted for by IFRA members.

 With 15 years of expertise in wellness footwear, MBT is the original and most innovative brand in this category.  In addition to the Spring Summer 2011 premium collection, offering the best in comfort and performance, we are excited to announce the launch of Jambo, a casual introductory line to the MBT’s world of balance and motion.  

 21 May 2011: Challenge yourself and challenge poverty in the Prima Solutions Adventure Challenge. A marathon distance on foot, bike and canoe in scenic Cannock Chase, Staffordshire for fashion and retail industry professionals. Supporting leading aid and development charity CARE International www.carechallenge.org.uk/primasolutions 020 7934 9470.  
 

Ben Sherman Footwear license holders, Hudson Shoe Company are pleased to announce that they have appointed Blue Sky Moda Sport Ltd to represent the brand in the UK and Eire selling to independent retailers starting January 1^st 2011.

Jacobson Footwear has appointed footwear agency L 4 Leather as its representative in Ireland.  The change in representation comes following Kevin Cooke’s retirement from the footwear industry where he leaves a 50 year legacy.L 4 Leather is well respected in the footwear sector, holding a stable of established brands.  The agency, headed by John McHugh, will be represented by Damien Mahon who will carry Jacobson’s instock branded range which includes Odeon, Trueform, Manfield, Dunlop, Lonsdale and new high fashion brand Glitterati.

Robert Lambert joins wellness footwear specialist as new Head of Sales for UK/Ireland

Inspired by their birthplace, the Santiago shoes come in vibrant, saturated colours including Living Coral and Mimosa. The latest collection, which includes women’s, men’s and children’s versions, as well as an infant-only Mary Jane, is available to buy from March at www.keenfootwear.com 

For Autumn Winter 2011 Hush Puppies lives up to its name as the leading casual shoe brand. The 1958 Collection is a true celebration of Hush Puppies heritage, taking inspiration from the brands archives to re-create some of their classic styles.It brings forward Hush Puppies original comfort, offering a classic approach to contemporary styling.

Winter has really gripped Britain and Ireland over the last 2 years and looks set to continue in 2011. This has led to a high demand for warm lined waterproof boots. Austrian brand Superfit have a large collection of these boots for boys and girls in their AW11 range.

Jacobson Group has entered into a joint venture with Daren Roe to launch a men’s fashion footwear brand called ‘Dispair’.  Roe will utilise Jacobson Group’s extensive brand and footwear wholesaling infrastructure including finance, warehousing, distribution and marketing.

With a back catalogue stretching to 1936 the Van Dal brand has been coveted by millions of woman in the UK. In that time we have designed, developed and made countless shoes all from our Norwich base.

Leading premium outdoor footwear brand, Scarpa, takes a giant leap into the lifestyle sector for Spring 2011, with the launch of a new collection designed to set pulses racing along the high street.

What a season stockists of the Romika brand have experienced this autumn with reports of some of the strongest performing product within quality independents, multiples and department stores! Repeat orders at the brand have increased by an incredible 302% on the previous year and could have moved far beyond this if stock had allowed.

Bridging the gap between style and comfort for over 100 years, Josef Seibel is a master at producing beautiful footwear to put that extra ‘spring’ in your step. The autumn 2010 season launched new products which jumped into the best seller arena. Military inspired Palmira from the women’s collection in vibrant green and natural bark led the way and Kingfisher, offering the hiking look on a heel, closely followed pushing Josef Seibel into the fashion environment with comfort at the core.

 EMU Australia, the genuine Australian sheepskin and wool specialist, launch their colourful 2011 Fall collection for the Northern Hemisphere in one of Australia’s most exotic locations Port Douglas.In 2011 the very popular EMU Stinger style, which was a hit with celebrities and EMU lovers around the world will be available in ten new fashion colours including bright aubergine, beautiful indigo, natural dusty olive, earthy hazelnut, trendy putty and this season’s must have colour mushroom.

Leading aid and development agency CARE International is urging teams from across the fashion and retail industry to challenge themselves and challenge poverty, in the Prima Solutions Adventure Challenge supported by Footwear Today on 21st May 2011. Taking place in scenic Cannock Chase in Staffordshire, the challenge combines outdoor activities in a day of exhilarating fun. The day includes a fast-paced canoe relay, a demanding mountain biking course and a trail challenge on foot through the forest… all in the target time of ten hours.

Renowned for its performance range of quality technical outdoor footwear, Meindl has a comprehensive line up of models suitable for children.  As feet grow, extra growing room is needed to make footwear last even longer.  To make sizing easier every pair of children’s footwear from Meindl includes a removable ‘Best Fit’ footbed, which features a ‘Best Fit’ line on the insole, outlining that essential 12mm of extra growing room.

The special campaign around the Rainbow Collection of ladies’ handbags by fashion label BULAGGI® has raised 40,000 euros. The entire proceeds will go directly to the Thai Tamar Center in Pattaya, where ex-prostitutes are provided shelter and receive help in building a new future. The BULAGGI® Rainbow campaign was the first project of the BULAGGI® Charity Foundation after its establishment last year.

BULAGGI®’s director Arjan Walraven is happy with this fantastic result: “Being able to donate so much money to this wonderful foundation makes me a grateful person. We would like to thank the media and our customers for their support during this campaign. It is heart-warming to know that even in times of economic crisis we are all willing to open up our hearts and our purses for those less fortunate than ourselves.”

INTERSPORT, the premier global buying group brand in centralising its in-house marketing role has appointed Susan Herbert as Marketing and Communication manager.

Susan was previously in charge of brand direction and strategy for Love Hearts Jewellery, with special responsibility for launching the brand and the development of distribution channels, before which she was Brand Director of adidas & Ellesse Watches responsible for the brand’s marketing and communication strategy and product development.

Ward Shoes, an export company based in Sheffield, specialise in exporting stock lot and worn return footwear and clothing. The company exports 1,000,000 items a year, mainly to Africa and Eastern Europe. Quite an achievement for a company that only has 24 employees.

Michael Ward the managing director told Footwear Today: “We are absolutely over the moon to win the award for a third time. To win the award once was an incredible achievement and we are just astonished that we have managed to win it for the third time. We are very lucky to have such an amazing workforce, it is their hard work and dedication that has made this company the success that it is.”

Founder of Shoe Aid.co.uk Lee Todd appeals to footwear retailers nationwide to get involved in helping not only those in the third world who desperately need shoes, but also those close to home who are fighting cancer.

Lee Todd writes: Having worked within the footwear industry for 28 years, shoes have always been a big part of my life. However, whereas shoes are a means of expressing ourselves in the western world, there are many people for whom shoes are luxuries, and that is why I have recently purchased the domain name www.shoe-aid.co.uk with a view collecting shoes that could be put to good use overseas.

Owners of any brand of worn and unwanted walking boots are being encouraged to donate their old boots through a new initiative launched by the leading outdoor footwear brand, Meindl. Boot owners are being given the chance to make a difference in developing countries by donating their used boots with all monies raised from the collection of the footwear donated to WaterAid.

From 1^st May to 30^th June 2010, outdoor enthusiasts can simply take their old boots of a wearable standard to any Cotswold or Ellis Brigham store nationwide or to selected independent retailers (as listed at www.meindl.co.uk/newlife)

Children’s shoe company Start-rite has appointed Adrian Horne as Sales Director for the UK and Eire.  This is a promotion for Adrian, who was previously Field Sales Manager at the company.

In his new position Adrian will play a strategic role in helping to grow the business while continuing to head up Start-rite’s team of regional Business Managers.  He will retain personal responsibility for two of the company’s major accounts: Russell & Bromley and Jones Bootmaker.   Adrian’s first task will be a fact-finding mission to visit Start-rite retailers - large and small - to get a fresh understanding of the challenges and opportunities which face them. 

Jacobson Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Helen Pope to the position of key account product developer. Pope joins Jacobson Group having worked in the footwear industry for 25 years, with vast experience in customer product design, this newly created role will see Pope working in the design and sourcing areas of the business.

Pope will be based at the Jacobson Group head office in Lancashire, but will also maximise the opportunities available in London, working from the group’s newly formed showroom and office facility in the capital.

Creating a buzz for 2010,  Meindl’s new Respond XCR is available in a mid-boot or shoe version. The Respond XCR combines Meindl’s quality craftsmanship with the latest technology to produce footwear which is lightweight, durable and guaranteed to be 100% waterproof.

Priced at £99.99, the Respond XCR shoe provides extreme lightweight comfort while enjoying the outdoors due to its Gore-Tex lining. The Contagrip sole unit offers excellent heel stabilisation and superb durability for everyday use, while the additional toe rand offers protection to the forefoot and is 100% waterproof. Available in two colourways, sizes 3.5 – 8 women and 6 – 12 men, both the male and female styles are also available in half sizes.

Men’s footwear brand, Base London continued their support of the future of British design with the ‘Band for the Brand’ competition for De Montfort University’s Footwear Design 2^nd year students.

During the winter term the De Montfort students were tasked with developing and producing a range of creatively commercial formal and casual footwear styles for a new imaginary band to fit their style and sound for two occasions, festival and award ceremony. Looking at fashion trends relating to the music industry, both past and present, the students formed a band for whom, they would create a range of casual styles ideal for a festival appearance and formal styles for the award ceremony.

For this coming autumn, the Kickers collection varies from the downright urban, with bright colour pops and techy materials, to a softer more natural range with soft vintage leathers and rich autumnal hues. Permeating throughout the collection, be it for men, women or littl’uns, the Kickers feel good attitude resonates. As ever, Kickers has designed shoes that make you smile.

Women

For Autumn Winter 2010, the Kickers range for women follows two distinct stories, both designed to ensure feet stay not only warm and comfy, but also firmly on trend. On the one hand, we have ‘Real Folks’, a trend of warm nature-inspired shoes in vintage materials and earthy colours. On the other hand, we have the ‘Express Yourself’ trend featuring reinvented 90’s classic styles with bold chunky silhouettes, funky animal prints and diamante and gold trims.

UK Gear, the company that supplies performance running shoes to the British Army is preparing an assault on the US using a £1.125 million cash injection from venture capital firm Catapult. The funding will be used to increase the number of sales staff, both in the UK and US, to speed expansion into overseas military markets as well as specialist retail channels.

As part of the deal Mike Tomkins, non-executive chairman of online sportswear retailer M and M Direct, is to become chairman of UK Gear. Mike Tomkins led M and M Direct through a £90 million sale three years ago.

Sanita, the original clog brand from Denmark, has a fashion focused collection for Autumn/Winter 2010/2011.

The footwear brand was born in Herning, Denmark in 1907 when Christian Andersen began making wooden soled shoes for his neighbours.

Over 100 years on, the brand is renowned around the world for high quality products offering maximum comfort at fantastic prices.

For WOMEN in ENGLAND there is funding available for the Society of Shoe Fitters course.  The next course starts October lst, but if you wish to receive a large percentage of the course fee refunded, you need to apply for the course and the funding NOW.  The funds are extremely limited in comparison to other years, so an application has to be made immediately.  If you would like a course place, are a woman and living/working in England you need to complete the SSF course application form (available for download online:  www.shoefitters-uk.org), and email it to Laura West, Secretary (SSF) requesting funding contact details.  The secretary cannot guarantee funding as this is a government initiative and it is entirely based on a 'first come first served' basis.

Amid scenes of great euphoria and the popping of champagne corks, as the finishing tape was broken, the ‘Pound for Cumbria’ fundraising walk, which started from Warrington, New Balance’s European HQ in Cheshire, on Monday 22^nd of February, finally finished, appropriately enough, at Dovenby Hall, the home of the Cumbria Community Foundation just outside Cockermouth on the afternoon of Friday 26^th February, 140 gruelling miles later.

The eight tired but jubilant walkers were greeted and congratulated at a reception given at Dovenby Hall attended by Tony Cunningham MP for Workington, Malcolm Wilson CEO of M-Sport, Jonathan Ram, New Balance’s Managing Director, John Grainger, Managing Director of Invest in Cumbria, and Councillor John Binky Armstrong, Mayor of Allerdale.

It’s Kickers’ 40^th birthday this year and they want to celebrate in style with real people, the true Kickers’ lovers who have helped Kickers achieve such a momentous heritage.

Born out of the peaceful uprising of the early 70’s that has remained true to the brand and to celebrate 40 years in the business, Kickers want to take their ‘Feel Good Revolution’ to the streets of London.

From the middle of February, the Kickers’ team have been hitting the streets of the capital, inviting people of all ages who encapsulate the Kicker’s Feel Good ethos to take part in a casting for the new marketing campaign.

Manas has launched a line of men’s shoes. Positioned in the same market segment as its successful line of women’s shoes, it is described as a well-designed cross-over between urban and outdoor fashion, targeting an independent, contemporary and demanding client.

MBT is introducing lighter and more technical models in its athletic shoe collection for spring 2010, and a new line of business shoes for men and women for autumn 2010. The big Swiss company, whose main patents have fallen into the public domain, is warning shoppers to be careful and not buy counterfeit versions of its shoes, saying that fake MBT shoes are flooding the market and could pose a health threat to the wearer.

The shareholders of spartoo.com, which rejected a takeover offer from Amazon at the end of 2008, are targeting sales of more than $100 million by 2012, rising to $300 million in 2015, and at least 40 % of that should come outside France, where this young shoe e-tailer is based. Amazon took over last year zappos.com, the leading American shoe retailer over the internet.

Spartoo claims to be already the biggest retailer selling exclusively current footwear styles in Europe. To help finance its European expansion, Spartoo has raised €12 million worth of additional equity by letting in two investment companies as new shareholders.They are Highland Capital Partners of the U.S. and Endeavour Vision of Switzerland. They have joined are institutional investors and company managers including Boris Saragaglia, co-founder and president of the three-year-old company.

Baracuta, renowned for its effortless style and timeless cool, is stepping up its brand offer by launching a stylish footwear collection.The British brand, founded in the 1930’s has enjoyed iconic status, being the favoured casual staple of the coolest from Steve McQueen to Daniel Craig, Frank Sinatra to Pete Doherty and Elvis to Oasis.   The extension from clothing  into footwear comes as the brand is enjoying great success worldwide.

The footwear collection will be produced, under license, by Base London.  The collection will be a tightly focused range of styles to complement the clothing range including vulcanized, desert boots, loafers and boots.  The footwear will be unveiled early in the New Year for A/W 10 retail.

Kickers and LEGO team up for a killer second season with summery silhouettes, playful prints and a brand new girls’ collection in pinks and purples. The range seamlessly incorporates instantly recognisable LEGO® design features on the eyelets and straps, as well as the LEGO brand’s iconic prints. All of this is delivered in the signature bright up-tempo LEGO colours, which complement the playful Kickers spirit perfectly.

Investvar, Portugal’s biggest footwear company, has a general meeting on Feb. 8 where shareholders and creditors will decide its future, but it seems that its new MoveOn project will not go ahead. They will have two or three different options, but Jorge Pereira da Costa, Investvar’s new president, did not provide details, saying the projects are confidential and have to be voted on first.

The previous chief executive of Investvar, Pedro Ribeiro da Cunha, who was designated by Portuguese Economics Minister Manuel Pinho last March, had said that the new MoveOn banner, created to replace Aerosoles, would have allowed the company to be profitable in 2011 and have record sales in 2012.

The BFA recently canvassed its members for their predictions for 2010 and their views were broadly optimistic  - but tinged with realism. They see forward orders as being stronger than last year but there is the underlying uncertainty of not knowing the way the economy and consumer confidence is really moving  - together with a pending election, changes in the buying habits of the public and big pressures on price from both the retailer and the consumer.

This general air of increased but not overwhelming confidence translates into increased participation by our members in exhibitions. For overseas shows, we calculate an increase of 10%, for the UK ones a bit less.

The Langenfeld-based Ara Group and the Detmold-based Wortmann Group want to revive the Salamander brand to build on the great success of the past. The two companies have agreed that the production and sale of shoes from the Salamander brand portfolio, in particular the well-known Salamander and Lurchi brands, should ensue within a joint venture to be founded shortly.  Ara and Wortmann will each have 50% interest in the company, as they did in a+w shoes (Jana), their first joint venture, which has enjoyed success since 2000. The existing retail activities of the Salamander Group, which will also be run separately in the future, are not affected by this collaboration.

With significant growth experienced for the autumn 2009 season, total volumes in the UK and Ireland more than doubled, Romika is on a firm footing for continued success with it’s new autumn 2010 collection.

Martin Ingram, managing director of Romika in the UK and Ireland attributes this success to a number of key ingredients. “A heritage of superb fitting lasts, resilient PU injection construction and comfort built in at every level of shoemaking is a great place to start. Add to this progressive and desirable design and top quality infrastructure in production, distribution and marketing and you have a recipe for success!

The UK is justifiably proud of the high profile footwear designer brands that not only are the envy of the world, but confirm this country’s ability to seemingly produce an endless stream of brilliantly talented and envied individuals. Names like Rupert Sanderson, Emma Hope, Georgina Goodman, Gwendolyn Carrie and Jeffery West are just a few of the eponymous brands that have global distribution and have inspired young designers in our world class colleges.

There is, however, another group of brands, less well known, but who have made enormous inroads whilst in the midst of this unrelenting recession. They aim at very different sectors of the market and each have a personality or DNA of their own  -  but what they do have in common is that they are run by young entrepreneurs who work hard at identifying their particular niche and making it work.

Norwich based Van Dal footwear is leading the way in AW10 with a collection of four authentic themes aimed at bringing comfort to recession hit women. In AW09 the British manufacturer launched ion-mask, a revolutionary nano technology which repels dirt and water, in its Van Dal TLC collection.

There is a hint of western in ‘Rawhide’, a homage to Van Dal’s own history of fine shoe making in ‘Heritage’ , a softer return to the authentic femininity of ‘Ribbons & Bows’ and the ultimate in winter comfort with ‘Arctic Chic’.

This season’s Boutique by Chic exhibition at the Ricoh arena in Coventry promises to be more directional than ever with even more big European brands eager to present their collections at the UK’s most glamorous fashion trade event.

If you have experienced Boutique by Chic before, you will not be shocked to hear that the organisers have more surprises in store this season as they have just announced that there will be a French theme ‘with a touch of Moulin Rouge’ and a fabulous restaurant menu to tantalise your taste buds at very reasonable prices.

Fiorentini + Baker has announced it will present the forthcoming A/W 2010 collection at London Fashion Week. This will be the first time the Italian based shoe designer has exhibited at LFW. The decision is part of a continuing expansion plan to bring the Fiorentini + Baker philosophy to the UK, following the success of its Westbourne Grove boutique, launched in June 2009.

London born designer, Deborah Baker comments on the decision to exhibit at LFW – “It seems the right time to get involved with London Fashion Week, having previously always presented collections in Milan and Paris. We want to make the collection available to a wider, UK based audience and feel that LFW is the best option to achieve that.”

The floods of November 2009 in Cumbria have directly effected over 1500 households and businesses. Many families are still living in temporary accommodation and businesses are still closed severely affecting local employment.

Our New Balance Factory in Flimby is part of the area in Cumbria that has suffered so much havoc and destruction caused by the extensive flooding just before Christmas.  As a show of solidarity with the local community and to ensure that the hardships they are still suffering do not fade from the nation’s consciousness we will be walking from our European Headquarters in Warrington to Dovenby Hall near Cockermouth a distance of 140 miles, passing through Wigan, Preston, Lancaster, Kendal, Windermere, Ambleside and Keswick on the way.

Kirstin Deutelmoser (pictured), director of GDS – International Event for Shoes & Accessories, as well as GLOBAL SHOES – leading trade show for sourcing, at Messe Düsseldorf, was honoured last month with the Fashion Fuchs 2009 from Hermann Fuchslocher Business Consultancy. With the award, the jury around Dr. Rolf Klinke again honours an “exemplary personalised fashion achievement”.

As you may already be aware, Germany, Austria and Malta have now opted to abstain from the vote on the Commission's proposal to extend the ADD period for a further fifteen months. These additional abstentions effectively count as votes in favour of the proposal, which now looks  certain to be voted through at the meeting of the Council of Ministers on 22nd December, with the additional fifteen month period beginning sometime between the 3rd and 8th January 2010.

Launched as the ‘little black dress of the rubber boot wardrobe’, Aigle’s new luxury boot has reported 40% sell through in the first two weeks. The Miss Juliette, black story collection of limited edition premium rubber boots was launched exclusively in the UK through Kurt Geiger in Harrods and Liberty on 2nd November and has provided a point of difference in this increasingly influential footwear sector.

Chic returns this January to The Ricoh Arena Coventry (which is on junction 3 of the M6 motorway), where will see all the biggest names in the Luggage and handbag industry as well as a fantastic collection of key jewellery, scarf, glove, umbrella, hat and shoe brands.

The unique difference at Chic is that it is the only fashion trade event that takes place at the beginning of the retail selling season… Now more than ever, it makes sense to buy stock as you need it.

Chic returns this January to The Ricoh Arena Coventry (which is on junction 3 of the M6 motorway), where will see all the biggest names in the Luggage and handbag industry as well as a fantastic collection of key jewellery, scarf, glove, umbrella, hat and shoe brands.

The unique difference at Chic is that it is the only fashion trade event that takes place at the beginning of the retail selling season… Now more than ever, it makes sense to buy stock as you need it.

The collaboration of Hannes & Mauritz with Jimmy Choo appears to have been much better than its previous partnership with Karl Lagerfeld and many other big-name designers. H&M stores in 200 cities around the world recently opened to lines of people who had been camping outside for hours, waiting to get their chance at the new line of shoes, accessories and clothes signed for the low-priced chain by Jimmy Choo. The shoes were also on offer on H&M’s website. The collection, Jimmy Choo for H&M, sold out quickly as customers snatched up the designer’s products, with shoes costing less than $300 -hundreds of dollars cheaper than his regular line. New York’s Daily News reported two days later that many of the purchases being sold on eBay – for twice the price as at H&M.

Italy’s and Southern Europe’s persistent shoe lobby won two important battles in Brussels and Strasbourg. While, it has not yet put out an official document on this, the European Commission has stuck to its recommendation to extend the antidumping duties on Chinese and Vietnamese leather shoes for 15months, and a technical working group of the European Council of Ministers has indicated its support, reversing a negative vote cast by the anti-dumping committee of the Commission last November. At the same time, the European Parliament urged the Commission to come up with a final compromise proposal for mandatory labels of origin on shoes and other products imported from a number of countries outside the European Union.

The global footwear market is expected to grow by an annual average rate of 4.5% in value between 2009 and 2013, with the luxury segment enjoying the strongest pace over the period.

This rather optimistic forecast was presented by at the annual convention last month of Anci, the Italian footwear industry association. It was based on research conducted by Corporate Value Associates (CVA) in behalf of Anci.

Joel Travers, a former French executive of Wolverine World Wide who is also an agent of foreign shoes brands at his own company Sacamalice, believes in thepower of scents to stimulate customers to buy certain types of products in the stores, in the same way that music and visual interior design do.Travers has become president of the French subsidiary of Air Creative, a company specializing in olfactory marketing. Air Creative is a Swiss company that works on neutralising odors, rather than masking them, without using chemical elements.

Manas has won the first prize for value creation in The 2009 China Awards, organized by an Italo-Chinese foundation in collaboration with the Milano Finanza newspaper. The Italian company is developing a dedicated shoe line for the Chinese market with the help of a local design team. Manas has four stores in China and they should grow to 100 within five years. The brand has also opened three new corners in three different department stores in South Korea on a franchised basis, and their number is set to grow to 16 by 2012. Globally, the company is targeting deliveries of 1.5 million pairs and sales of €70 million for 2009.

Gibson London has announced the appointment of Nandi Enterprises of Dublin to represent the brand’s footwear collection within Northern Ireland and Eire. Charlie Demery and Andrea Splendori of Nandi Enterprises will commence, with immediately effect, by selling the Gibson London SS10 footwear range.