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Star school recognised by Brake
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A CARDIFF primary school has been recognised by road safety charity Brake as one of the star schools from Brake’s Giant Walk, sponsored by footwear retailer Brantano.
Futura and yReceipts SPECIALIST fashion retail business 73 Retail – a UK franchise partner for Timberland and other brands – can now offer digital receipts to customers at stores across the South of England, from Cambridge to Padstow, thanks to the yReceipts application and integration work completed by EPOS and retail systems partner Futura Retail Solutions. 73 Retail, which also partners brands including Havaianas, The North Face and Happy Socks, currently uses Futura’s EPOS across 10 stores together with Futura’s head office management solution which includes buying, merchandising, stock management and reporting functionality. Integrating the yReceipts application with Futura adds a further layer to customer service making shopping easier, but also ensuring better customer data capture and feedback
too. Customers now receive a digital receipt emailed to their inbox, straight from the till. Receipts are fully customised to maintain store branding and can include targeted offers, real-time feedback and social media integration to increase customer interaction. Founding director at 73 Retail, Luke Underhill, said: “As exclusive UK franchise partners for Timberland and other brands the Futura retail platform provides a rock solid retail solution for a multifaceted business model like ours. “Combined with an excellent reputation it was a simple choice for us. Adding yReceipts functionality not only improves the customer experience, but encourages immediate interaction and feedback with immeasurable value both to us and our retail partners.”
230 children from Christ the King Primary School took part in the walk to call for safer roads in their community. The school held road safety talks in class, ran role playing activities with road crossings in their playground, and baked traffic light biscuits. They also raised £763.42 to support Brake’s campaigns for safer roads and to support bereaved and injured victims of road crashes Senior community engagement officer at Brake, Philip Goose, said: “We are delighted to recognise Christ the King Primary School as one of our Star Schools from 2015. “Brake’s Giant Walk, supported in 2015 by Brantano and their stores throughout the UK, is a great way for schools to call for safer roads in their community for children to be able to walk or cycle without fear or threat from traffic.”
Best foot forward for duo as they attend Milan footwear fair By Christina Eccles
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TWO footwear students from the University of Northampton have been given the opportunity to network with leading industry names at an international footwear fair in the fashion capital of Milan. Laura Pickering and Hallie Lonsdale will be attending the MICAM footwear fair in February to work as interns with the British Footwear Association after winning a competition they were entered into in exchange for their involvement invigilating the BFA’s Craft to America, Style to Britain footwear exhibition at the university. During the trip, they will be able to immerse themselves in the tradeshow environment, gain invaluable experience and meet key people from some of the best footwear brands in the world.
Third year student Laura said: “I was a bit overwhelmed when I heard I had won as there were quite a few people in my class who were invigilating, but the fact that I get to go is absolutely amazing. “As this is my third and final year, this is a great opportunity to get my foot in the door so I can see firsthand what it will be like when I do go and work in the industry. “It will be hard work, but I will get to experience what's to come so I am looking forward to it.” Chief executive of the BFA, John Saunders, added: "We are very grateful to the University of Northampton for allowing the BFA to use its gallery as the location for this fantastic event. “We would especially like to thank the students who have given their
time to act as invigilators of the event – keeping an eye on the exhibits and supplying additional help to the people who have visited the event. “While all the team receive our thanks, we are pleased to be taking two students to work as part of the BFA team at the MICAM trade show in Milan in February and we believe that this will give them the chance to experience a new exciting international market, to see firsthand how companies operate and sell overseas and to interact and get to know some of the UK’s leading footwear companies. “Bringing together future highquality UK footwear designers and the best of the British footwear industry has to be a good thing – the BFA is proud to be able to make this happen.”
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Ivy League’s influence on area’s footwear industry showcased at exhibition
Quirky footwear brand Irregular Choice has collaborated with Disney/Lucas film on a new Star Wars’ inspired collection. The limited edition collection features actual characters from the films as heels, plus details such as prints, embroidery, specially designed insoles and collectable boxes.
By Olivia Taylor
manufacturing process to life.
THE University of Northampton hosted an exhibition which focused on the influence the Ivy League had on the footwear industry in Northamptonshire.
Photo shoots and film from local production detailed the meticulous craft skills and continued investment required to create the highest standards of footwear in the world.
Curated by Tim Walker and Tom Shaw, with support from the British Footwear Association, the Craft to America Style to Britain exhibition emphasised the links between the 20th Century style that emerged within the elite universities of the United States, traced that development and demonstrated how it had influenced the output of the British footwear industry.
Acting dean of the School of The Arts at the University of Northampton, Jayne Bingham, said: “We were delighted to host the British Footwear Association’s Craft to America exhibition.
Images from Graham Marsh’s book, Hollywood and the Ivy Look, which includes Steve McQueen, Paul Newman and Anthony Perkins, displayed how the look was embraced by leading actors and studios. It also demonstrated the projection of this dress code throughout one of America’s most defining periods of global cultural dominance. The exhibition also brought the
“The School of The Arts works closely with the BFA to support its initiatives and it provided excellent guidance to ensure our BA (Hons) Footwear and Accessories programme meets the needs of industry.” Tim added: “The University of Northampton was chosen as the exhibition venue due to its fantastic globalisation of quality footwear brands and its continuous investment in high quality craftsmanship. The work on show also highlighted the influence of the Ivy League on the Northamptonshire footwear industry.”
Think you know Moda? MODA Footwear returns to the NEC this February with a revised layout and a strengthened line up of essential and directional footwear brands. Having introduced new locations for its five shows – footwear, womenswear, menswear, accessories and lingerie – Moda will maximise the potential of each of its sectors, including the introduction of several new features within its footwear arena. This season will see the launch of Boutique, a platform within Moda Footwear dedicated to contemporary women’s footwear brands. Boutique will showcase a curated 4 December/January 2015/16
edit of brands – including Peter Kaiser, Lemon Jelly, Hoegl, Alpe, Lisa Kay and Ruby Shoo – and it’s a move which has been welcomed by buyers within the wider womenswear sphere, as well as dedicated footwear visitors. Director at independent department store Ravens of Southend in Essex, Neil Raven, said: “Having relevant products grouped together at Moda will be an advantage for us, particularly when we are looking for new inspiration. “We introduced footwear into the store about six years ago because so many of our ladies were asking for shoes, so we are still perfecting our brand mix.”
Beyond Boutique, Moda Footwear will welcome back returning favourites such as Hush Puppies, Cat, Sebago, Chatham, Aigle, Ravel, Rieker and Dr Martens. Event director Sean O’Connor added: “The brand line-up at Moda Footwear continues to diversify season after season. “We are delighted to see that so many of the brands who showed with us for the first time in summer will return for autumn, demonstrating the distinct but equally strong identity of the two seasons.” Mini Moda will also build upon its position as the national footwear
show for the children’s sector with a strengthened line-up of kids’ collections. Italian brand Lelli Kelly makes a welcome return, alongside returning favourites Xti Kids, Froddo, Ricosta, Bo-Bell and Bobux. This season will also see Moda Footwear coincide with the Footwear Industry Awards, which will take place at Birmingham’s National Conference Centre – formerly the Motorcycle Museum – on the Sunday evening of the show. Registration to attend Moda Footwear, which takes place at the NEC on February 21-23, is free to footwear buyers and retailers. news
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Panorama launches new area for shoes and accessories INSPIRED by retailers and buyers, Panorama Berlin will launch its first dedicated space for shoes and accessories during the Fall/Winter 2016/2017 season. In a dedicated hall with approximately 3,000 sqm of space, more than 100 selected shoe and accessory vendors will present their products from January 19-21 2016.
OOAL to sponsor industry awards OUT On a Limb Magazine will sponsor the Footwear Industry Awards as it reaches its fifth year anniversary. The magazine will sponsor Men’s Footwear Brand of the Year at the event, which will take place at the National Conference Centre (formally known as the National Motorcycle Museum) on February 21, 2016. Group sales manager Beverley Green said: “Out on a Limb is delighted and honoured to be supporting The Footwear Industry Awards once again.
“It is not only a highly successful way of recognising all that is good about our industry; it also offers invaluable networking opportunities in a social atmosphere. “Good luck to all nominees and we look forward to meeting the winners at one of the most prestigious occasions in the footwear industry calendar.”
Hall eight is situated between the main food area in Hall seven c, where the popular Berlin Street Food Market is located, and Hall nine, where the new project – Nova Concept – will take place for the first time. CEO of Panorama Berlin Joerg Wichmann said: “With our dedicated shoe and accessory hall, we want to address the fact that this segment is becoming increasingly important commercially.
decide on shoes and accessories at an early stage. “Moreover, this can be done within a fashion context and while participating in Panorama Berlin’s international character.
“This new platform provides an alternative to the familiar formats that surface later in the season, since we offer retailers and exhibitors an opportunity to view and
“It is also a useful addition to our portfolio. Fashion has a lot to do with styling. To create new looks on an ongoing basis, you need shoes and accessories – and you can never have enough of them.”
Other sponsors include main sponsor Clarks, Cherry Blossom, Legero Superfit, HB Shoes, Moda Footwear, pediped, Rieker and Skechers.
When you find shoe that fits, buy it in every colour The official cutting of the ribbon with Gail Whiteman (The new Rubin Chair for Sustainability in Business) and Andy Rubin (chairman of Pentland Brands, which is part of Pentland Group)
WHEN you find a shoe that fits, buy it in every colour – is Milenika’s fitting motto.
University opens new Pentland Centre unit
And it will surely become a lot more women’s as they find out about the hidden secret that is Milenika shoes, as they’ll be lusting over not only every colour, but most likely every single style available. Milenika shoes is a brand which will fit the foot like a glove, while also catering to someone with a more classic taste looking to put a new twist to their footwear choices. Milenika shoes are fully crafted from leather, with the utmost attention to detail, so as to create shoes and heels which not only are fashion forward, but also great quality and comfortable to wear, so women all over the world will be able to wear the magnificent designs for years to come. With inspiration drawn from nature, geometry and the human body, Milenika gives footwear a very distinctive signature and special feeling for the person wearing them. 6 December/January 2015/16
All made with love, good taste and exceptional design, they are simply putting a smile on the faces of the people wearing the piece of the Milenika story. For the love of shoes – Milenika Shoes!
LANCASTER University has launched the Pentland Centre – a research unit dedicated to solving sustainability challenges faced by businesses.
Professor Gail Whiteman will be leading the Pentland Centre as the Rubin Chair for Sustainability in Business.
The Pentland Centre will bring together the best minds in science and business to find more sustainable ways of working that can be applied and scaled by business.
Before joining the centre, she spent more than a decade at the Rotterdam School of Management and had a distinguished career in the private sector – originally working in advertising and marketing – and academia.
The partnership connects Lancaster University – home to one of the UK’s top business schools and one of the leading environmental research centres in Europe – and the Pentland Group plc, a privately owned, global brand management company with wholesale and retail businesses in sports, outdoor and fashion.
She said: “My overriding mission is to link the best minds in science, the best minds in business and local people to help deliver positive change. It’s about boiling down the messages to make the science more understandable for leaders in business.” news
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Big names added to speaker line-up for next Pure London features
Give your feet the gift of the ‘Legero feeling’ throughout the year Cover story – page 10
PURE London has secured a compelling line-up of over 20 speakers for its forthcoming edition, with representatives from House of Fraser, Marks and Spencer, River Island, F&F, Museum of London and The Fashion and Textile Museum adding to the exciting seminar programme alongside award-winning industry figures. Tailored sessions will also be provided by WGSN and UK Trade and Investment. Seminars for February 2016 will include detailed insights on the top trends in the industry, guides to buying for Autumn Winter 16, success stories and tips on branding, merchandising, ecommerce, social media, brand collaborations, budgeting and international expansion. The dynamic trade event will provide visitors, buyers and brands in attendance with unmissable content from some of the industry’s most reputable names. Claudia Battisel, director of buying at House of Fraser, will provide a keynote seminar on Sunday February 14. Claudia will discuss keeping up with the business of fashion, mastering new skills and developing a team for long-term success.
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Dave Thomson, head of product at M&S.com and Mobile, will be discussing the presence of technology in everyday life and how this has transformed consumers’ habits. He will talk about investing in a ‘mobile-first’ business, bringing multiple long-term benefits, taking
menswear for Autumn Winter 16, Simon Middleton, founder at Shackelton, David Mullane, owner of W2 and Bernadette Kissane, apparel and footwear analyst at to the main stage at 3.30pm on Sunday February 14. Stephen Hall, retail visual director at River Island, will be in the Main Stage on Sunday February 14 presenting a talk on five steps to update a shop window and in-store displays. This practical advice from a merchandising expert will focus on targeting the right customers and using seasonal displays to increase sales. Also on the Sunday, Beatrice Behlen, senior curator at Museum of London will be sharing her up close and personal insights on fashion. This includes the memoirs of a dress and the stories our clothes tell. Curating a wardrobe from the past compared to the present day and the role clothes play in reflecting and shaping our personalities. Beatrice added: “I think customers are generally more demanding, they expect retail professionals to really know about fabrics, how to care for them and to be able to use technology to find out where an out of stock item can still be found. I look forward to talking about how important clothes are for identity and how you can see that in the clothes that have survived.” In line with Pure London’s launch of
Euromonitor International will provide insight into what men want, the ever-growing menswear market and how to build a breakthrough with a menswear brand. As luxury brands increasingly become the preserve of the superrich and fast fashion chases the under-30s; talks from Alyson Walsh, author and blogger and Alice Hastings-Bass, co founder at LUX FIX, will discuss how independent retailers serve all those stylish 30+ women who are neglected by the large incumbent fashion players. A highlight for many visitors at Pure London, WGSN will return to present their trend forecast for Autumn Winter 16, sharing perspectives on the key looks, colours, shapes and fabrics that are set to be huge for the seasons ahead. Presented on the main stage the forecast is an essential session for buyers, stylists and designers, with the key trends being brought to life during the succeeding catwalk show. A trendled young fashion catwalk will also take place twice a day on the Spirit Catwalk. The forthcoming edition will take place from February 14-16 at Olympia London. For more information on the programme visit www.purelondon.com/fashionforum
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Information, inspiration and impulses at GDS THE sector is in the starting blocks for the 121st GDS – Global Destination for Shoes and Accessories. The winter edition from February 10 to 12 2016 will once again offer exciting collections, a comprehensive trend programme as well as fresh inspirations for retailers to design their ranges. As an impulse-generating event for the new 2016 Autumn/Winter season, GDS offers more than 800 brands the platform to present their new collections and highlights to an international audience. Inspired by the shopping metropolises of this world the STUDIO, HIGHSTREET and POP UP lifestyle worlds reflect the entire range from urban and hip labels and modern to classic styles through to Premium shoe fashions. New at GDS
The HIGHSTREET segment awaits visitors with an exciting newcomer: with its participation Timberland underlines the international importance of GDS. Furthermore, the STUDIO segment is delighted at the return of Lottusse, the brand that has been causing a stir with high-quality collections and not just this season. The POP UP area in Hall 10 can also delight in the return of G-STAR. In the highend premium segment STUDIO, new brands like Oliver Sweeney, La Bottega di Lisa, Miista, Esseutesse and Roy Robson delight visitors. Accessories by Mur86phy as well as bags from Philipp-Lacquer and Another Bag enhance the STUDIO area. Newcomers in the HIGHSTREET area include: Lyle&Scott, Rockland, Franzini and Via Scarpa. In the accessories segment, Street Level presents trendy bag styles. The Kids segment is supplemented by exciting collections by Shoesme, Shoo Pom, Shwik and Move by Melton. EMU Australia Kids will appear for the first time with their own stand. Group Royer is presenting collections by Kickers Kids, Astaire, Mod‘8 and Robeez in the Kids Area. The POP UP Area will features
be presenting the brands Ten Points and NEWFS brands for the first time. Trends at GDS
In addition to its inspiring collection range, GDS also has a comprehensive trend line-up in store. Once again, the overarching trend theme will be impressively staged on the Highlight Route. The topical “Digital Craft” motif – which featured at the last edition of GDS and picked up on 3D technologies in their varied facets – will now be consistently further developed for February 2016. Under the “Fusion of Digital and Real Life Shop Experience” motto the analogue and digital world are brought together in a meaningful way. This zeitgeist theme also has inspirations on topics like “Sustainable Materials” and “Wearables” in store. The GDS Fashion Shows and shows of individual brands again featuring in Hall 10 will provide live information on topical seasonal looks. The Trend Spots in Hall five provide comprehensive insights into the seasonal trends for 2016. Trends and innovations are atmospherically staged here and strikingly presented within mood spaces and design objects. Forum Touch, on the other hand, serves as a comprehensive information pool for textures and surfaces. New collections and a unique supporting programme provide retailers with broad-based information on the latest innovations in the shoe sector.
Commenting on the kick-off to the event, director of GDS and tag it!, Kirstin Deutelmoser said: “Information and inspirations are the perfect way for retailers kick off the new season and the order period. “This is exactly what retailers get at GDS: impulses for putting together an ideal range! “We are delighted that newcomers like Timberland as well as returnees like G-Star and Lottusse are enhancing the collection portfolio and international flair of GDS with their participation. I hope even more retailers will use our comprehensive line-up at the forthcoming GDS.” Fashion Bloggers: Success enters its Fourth Round
Together with styleranking, February 2016 will see the FashionBloggerCafé “shoedition” enter its fourth round at GDS. Ahead of the official GDS start, a new blogger will be chosen for testimonials. A worthy successor will follow in the footsteps of Maja Wyh, Alice M. Huynh and Nina Schwichtenberg alias Fashiioncarpet. At GDS the next testimonials blogger will select and review the latest shoe and accessories trends, rating them with fashion know-how and publishing the most important itpieces on high-reach channels.
take part in the varied programme at the action stands of the FashionBloggerCafé shoedition. tag it! – The Private Label Show
One date, one city, two trade shows. Running in parallel to GDS tag it! will be held for the fourth time now – as a trade show in the Private Label segment. For the first time tag it! will be staged in Hall one of Düsseldorf Exhibition Centre. International flair is at the forefront here with manufacturers from Asia presenting their collections particularly aimed at international retailers of shoes and accessories with a focus on sourcing and private label productions. tag it! is a unique platform for making personal contacts with key volume buyers from traditional and threshold markets. Here retailers will find the latest products for the still growing market of price-sensitive buyers. GDS Dates in 2016
The forthcoming GDS and tag it! events will run from February 10 to 12 2016, as usual from Wednesday to Friday. From July 2016 a new sequence of days will apply: July 26 to 28 from Tuesday to Thursday.
At the Blogger Runway Show, the testimonial blogger along with four other bloggers will showcase unique looks.
The new scheduling means Friday, one of the highest earning days in retail, can be avoided. Retailers can therefore use the trade shows in the most effective way possible and will not be forced to decide between a trade show visit and sales.
At the obligatory FashionBloggerCafé shoedition fashion bloggers meet to network, attend informative lectures relating to the blogging business and
All activities relating to GDS and tag it! can be found online at: www.gds-online.com and www.tag-it-show.com December/January 2015/16
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Out on a Limb cover story
Give your feet the gift of the ‘Legero feeling’ throughout the year Legero Schuhfabrik GesmbH has its headquarters in Graz, Austria.
Legero wants to conquer people’s hearts through their feet.
Founded in Vienna in 1872 by a traditional master shoemaker during the Habsburg period, the company became a private limited company in 1954.
The slogan “My feet’s favourite shoes” reflects the brand’s philosophy and the company’s ambition to serve as the preferred casual shoe brand for every occasion.
The company is majority owned by the Stolitzka family. The Legero Group entails four brands and is considered to be a global shoe company for children and adults. The head office in Graz is responsible for the development of the brands Legero, Superfit and VIOS. The subsidiary company Think Schuhwerke GmbH is seated in Kopfing, Austria and develops the brand Think! The company currently operates its own production sites in Europe and has partner production sites in the Far East. The company has almost 1,000 employees worldwide. More than five million pairs of shoes are produced and sold yearly by the Legero Group, which makes it one of the leading brands on the European shoe market. 10 December/January 2015/16
People who love their feet give them the gift of the “Legero feeling” all through the year. Legero is not a seasonal shoe, but a brand that can be worn throughout the year, fulfilling all of its requirements in every situation and at all times. In the winter and in the summer, in wet and dry conditions, in the city and in the great outdoors. The company is also a brand partner of W L Gore & Associates who manufacture GORE-TEX®. We offer our footwear in UK sizes three-and-a-half to 10 and EURO 36 – 43 for ladies and sizes EURO 40 – 48 for men. All shoes and boots are produced with insoles that are removable. Many styles are combined with GORE-TEX® for complete protection and comfort in both Winter and
Summer. The Legero collection for Adults has been in the UK & Ireland market for five years now and is growing within the stores it is currently stocked. Shoes can be ordered by Pre-order in free sizes and there is also Re-order availability in season. Legero will be at MODA on stand F40 in February 2016 and will also be at the European trade fairs Riva del Garda and MICAM.
Our UK & Ireland sales team are: Marcus Baker – UK South & Ireland Regional Account Manager Tel – +44 7775 995547 email – marcus.baker@legero.at Terry McIntosh– UK North Sales Agent Tel – 07957 834348 email – terry.mcintosh@legero.at Web – www.legero.at Twitter – @legeroukeire Facebook – legeroukireland
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A London based shoe designer has opened a flagship boutique store to meet an increase in customer demand. OOAL reporter Olivia Taylor found out more.
The front of Lucy Choi’s shop on Connaught Street in London (left) and the luxurious welcoming interior space where customers can relax (right).
Gap in the market leads to Lucy launching own brand LUCY Choi, niece of iconic designer Jimmy Choo, entered the footwear industry over 10 years ago, progressing to launch her own brand after spotting a gap in the market for a shoe label that was at the same time chic, luxurious and affordable. She explained: “After an eight year career in the city, I moved to the shoe industry. As the managing director of French Sole for 10 years, I was instrumental in expanding their brand in the UK and worldwide, to Asia, the Middle East and into the American market. “After 10 happy years at French Sole I felt it was the right time to move on. The development of my own brand Lucy Choi London was a natural and logical step for me to take to fulfill my desire of launching my own shoe label. “Why should you always have to spend hundreds of pounds to have a beautifully made, stylish and comfortable shoe?” Because of the brand’s success, Lucy felt opening the store was a natural progression to cater for her growing clientèle. The shop allows customers to try on and purchase shoes from the full collection. Lucy said: “Connaught Street was chosen as the perfect location as I felt there were many synergies between my boutique label and the community feel found in this area in the heart of the Hyde Park Estate. features
Lucy Choi (left) and the new limited edition Dormer shoe (right) that has proved so popular that Lucy sold her own pair.
“My boutique is a luxurious, welcoming space, where customers can come in, relax and enjoy personal service and a truly special shopping experience. We wanted to create a true shoe-candy heaven and mirror every girl's dream boudoir with an array of eye-catching and alluring shoes.” Lucy designed a shoe especially to mark the launch of the boutique and it has proved to be one of the best sellers from her current collection. She added: “My new limited edition Dormer shoes are proving very popular! So popular in fact that I had to sell my very own pair.
“I designed them to mark the launch of the boutique. I tried to infuse our ethos into this shoe by creating daring, sexy, and playful designs.
opening. Footfall has been steady since then and I hope particularly in the run up to Christmas this footfall will continue to stay strong.”
“This shoe combines a mix of eyecatching snake print leathers with black and white chevron detailing. It has the right pop of colour to set off your Autumn wardrobe and is perfect for the whole season."
In the future, Lucy hopes to extend her brand further and branch out of London, opening more stores across the world.
Lucy is now gearing up for her first Christmas at the store, hoping that she continues to attract a range of different clientèle. “We had a fantastic launch party last month with so many friends and press coming to celebrate the
She said: “I’d love to open further boutiques both in London and also internationally in the future. I’ve always put my heart and soul into any business I have worked for, and it is so rewarding to see the results with my own Lucy Choi London.” Website: www.lucychoilondon.com Tel: 0207 4023 434 Email: info@lucychoilondon.com
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Range of highly comfortable shoes on offer ALWAYS interested in innovation and satisfying the specific requirements of a foot that is growing and has to do it shod in the most appropriate way, the Garvalín company began a research project with the Biomecánica Institute of Valencia, which led in 1996 to the label Biomecánics, whose priority mission is ergonomics and adaptation to use. Through exhaustive studies on thousands of children and
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Size 28x34 is £23.75 to retail for £48 and 35x41 is £25.67 to retail for £51.
observation of their different needs at different ages, came a range of highly comfortable shoes where conception, material and construction are fully committed to ergonomics.
Pictured are:
A girl’s Mary Jane style with leather uppers, leather lining and a rubber sole unit, made in black leather, black patent and blue leather.
A boy’s double Velcro BTS shoe made in black leather with leather linings, leather uppers and rubber soles.
Size 24x30 is £22.17 for £45 retail, 31x34 is £23.08 for £46 retail, and 35x38 is £24 for £48 retail.
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Start-rite adds teal to its palette for Heritage range THIS autumn/winter, we're introducing the colour teal to the Start-rite palette for an exciting AW15 Start-rite Heritage range. Our heritage collection is all about original designs, designed exclusively for the shape of children's feet and represents the best quality, style and comfort.
parents loved were originally designed over 30 years ago. The designs are now more lightweight and flexible, whilst still maintaining the brand's signature ethos of quality fitted footwear.
We've been talking to mums and listening to what they love about the Start-rite brand, and brought back some of the classic designs that they loved so much.
You'll notice the teal heritage products have been added to certain styles in each age range – from prewalkers and junior shoes, through to our boots collections, giving some of our key styles that all important modern makeover.
Some of the updated products that
The collection can be viewed online.
Easy Peasy’s designs let little feet breathe BORN in 2008 with eco-friendly values at its core, French brand Easy Peasy designs pre-walkers, junior shoes and accessories with personality. Fusing playful patterns in stand-out shades, all of their pieces are made from soft, lightweight leather to let little feet breathe. For SS16, the designers sign a new playful and creative collection. The famous super soft and chemical free slippers Blublu, Blumoo, Kiny, Bomok, are proposed in amazing colours: yellow cab, light purple, light blue, which will combine perfectly with different prints. Sandals for older kids are available either in these colours or with metallic finish. From AW16, Easy Peasy will be offering a new first walker collection.
The accessories line is remaining very strong and popular with the famous Ronron round kids bags being the best selling style. The line is also expanding with a special collection for the mums: big shopping bag, make-up pouch bag. Easy Peasy is currently available in many shops and e-tailers such as Harvey Nichols, Tippy Toes Kids in Notting Hill and many other independent shops. back to school + kool for kidz
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Bubble London set to be better than ever THE AW16 Bubble London show is set to be better than ever with exciting additions and exclusive new signings. This season sees the introduction of ‘POP’, a curated area of inspiring brands and emerging designers, who can showcase their key pieces to Bubble London’s visitors keen to discover something special this
season.
New brands confirmed for AW16 include Buffalo and Bear, a British-made clothing and accessories brand for babies and toddlers, Petite Vigogne, a nursery accessories brand crafted using the finest Pima cotton, Les Lutins, a Parisian cashmere baby brand and leading Spanish footwear brand XTI,
known for its high-quality yet functional shoes.
Returning brands include muslin babycare experts aden + anais, Portuguese baby and kids brand Patachou, best-selling Spanish kids brand, Mayoral, baby and kids knitwear brand The Bonnie Mob, super chic European fashion accessories and interiors brand Bakker Made With Love, in
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addition to footwear from Igor and Mini Melissa and organic baby and kids clothing from Piccalilly and Frugi.
To find out more about Bubble London, please visit www.bubblelondon.com and share your news and views about Bubble London on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
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brand watch 2016
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FRODDO – every step is your story FRODDO is a Croatian designed and manufactured children’s brand using only the highest quality materials and constantly innovating to create premium footwear. Very popular in Europe, FRODDO shoes are now expanding rapidly within the UK and global markets. Children love the fun, playful styles and parents know that the fit, comfort and quality are assured. Working closely with expert podiatrists, FRODDO create anatomic, natural and individual footwear. All shoes have arch support and breathable membranes and no harmful, toxic materials or chrome V1 compounds are used in production. The trademark FRODDOTEX range
uses waterproof and breathable membranes and the natural wool linings keep feet warm and dry. The new AW16 collection is full of interesting and unique details. Look out for the new leathers and finishes – vintage colours and purple, blue and green patent; a lovely snakeskin textured leather and exciting new metallic pink leopard prints. Plus fur and tassel trim, buckles and contrasting colour details. Due to their popularity, the Chelsea boots range has been extended with great new colours and some funky multicoloured elastics. Sizes now start from 25 ans go up to size 40 and the black version is part of our BTS. FRODDO also has an extensive range of school Shoes available all
year round in sizes 25 – 40. The FRODDO Hi Tops range features colourful elastic laces with side zip and Velcro fastenings also available. New in 2016, the FRODDO Prewalker range is beautifully soft, made with premium, chrome free leather and bright colours. The non slip outsoles are a unique feature for Prewalkers and will make FRODDO stand out with customers. FRODDO customers will also enjoy our new B2B facility for up to date stock ordering at their leisure with fast delivery from Croatia within three to five working days. Please come and see us at BUBBLE LONDON on stand C34 – January 31 to February 1 and at MODA, NEC on stand 41, hall 17 – February 21 to 23 or contact us for a new brochure.
Manufacturer has never been so busy IN over 60 years, Early Days, the Leicester based baby and children’s footwear manufacturers have never been so busy. 2015 has been the companies most successful year ever, with next year’s order book filling up fast.
Brand Watch advertisers Taylor Blake Nicole Lee ISPO
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The company has seen demand for both its Early Days and Baypods brands grow dramatically this year and they are having to invest in new machinery and staff to keep up with the ever increasing sales. Early Days, their premier brand, received massive exposure recently resulting in sales far exceeding the company’s expectations and their new leather first walkers are now
sharing in this success. At the same time, Baypods – their value range – is seeing tremendous growth selling through babywear wholesalers around the UK and overseas. 2016 sees more new styles for both
collections including a brand new value range of first walkers to the Baypods range, all made in the UK at great prices. For more details please contact 01162 716944 or email sales@earlydays.ltd.uk
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Merrell launches the Energy to bridge gap POPULAR outdoor footwear brand Merrell has broken into the lifestyle arena, launching the Emergy exclusively in selected Office stores to bridge the gap between the trail and the city. Known for their specialist hiking boots, Merrell has taken the leap to design a hybrid trainer influenced by its outdoor heritage with style to hit the streets. The Emergy ensures a combination of style and comfort merged with Merrell’s patented performance technology: M Select Fresh provides breathability and M Select Grip delivers slip-resistant traction on wet or dry ground. The non-slip tongue with foam padding provides comfort, while the breathable mesh lining and hidden air cushions provide durability.
Lead designer Martin Dean said: “The challenge was simple – create a shoe that’s made for the streets but also ready to hit the dirt. “Merrell’s heritage as an outdoor footwear brand also had a big influence on the design process; this is most noticeable on the sole, which takes inspiration from an indoor climbing wall and uses bold bright colours to contrast the shoe’s upper.”
Designer wins another award FOOTWEAR designer Milly J has added another trophy to her collection after being recognised at the recent Precious Awards. Milly, whose shoes are loved by celebrities including Kylie Minogue, was named Outstanding Woman in
the Creative Industries at the awards. The event recognises women of colour doing great things in business and leadership and are endorsed by the Prime Minister and supported by The British Library, Credit Suisse and Barclays Bank.
Global sportswear brand Helly Hansen has unveiled its outdoor performance footwear collection for winter 2015. Paying homage to its Norwegian heritage, the range combines fashionable Scandinavian design influences with the ultimate in comfort and performance. Designs include the W Hedda boots, made with a premium, weather-resistant nubuck and suede upper and adjustable laces for the perfect fit. The sole is made with a Helly Grip compound, to ensure great traction in wintry conditions. Sporty style meets outdoor tradition in W Harriet – Helly Hansen’s new winter boot for women who desire warmth and fashion in one boot. W Harriet is styled with a suede exterior, nylon webbing for support and a soft faux-fur lining for an extra hit of luxury. The boot is finished with a white rubber cup sole and a Helly Grip outsole for stability and traction on slippery paths.
Brand Watch 2016
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How to avoid losing online customers in the mobile age By Ian Tomlinson, Cybertill DO you often find yourself shopping on a phone and having to zoom in and around the site because it won’t fit on your screen? Then you click on a new link and have to start the process again, and no doubt before long you give up as it becomes too difficult to navigate. This is an unresponsive website. Now imagine your customers going through that frustration on your site while trying to search for a specific pair of shoes or brand. It’s likely that they would leave too. Mobile or responsive? For retailers there are two solutions, you either have an additional mobile website or you have a responsive website. With a mobile site, a website designed specifically for mobile devices, retailers have to manage two websites (and pay for two websites).
However, with a responsive website, content fits to the screen size it is being viewed on, whether it’s on a smartphone, tablet or laptop, so you only need one website.
The mobile commerce sector in the UK is currently worth £9.7bn, and is expected to grow to a staggering £53.6bn by 2024, according to a recent survey by Webloyalty. It’s because of stats like this that an
‘Without a responsive site, you may find you lose potential customers due to the shopping and checkout process being too difficult and search engine rankings dropping.’
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AN expert has visited the Houses of Parliament to urge MPs to value the role footwear has in improving health. Hosted by Mid Norfolk MP George Freeman, minister for Life Sciences, the ‘Politically Correct Footwear’ event called on politicians to officially recognise the role correctlyfitting footwear has.
There’s no more moving around or zooming in and out – you can see everything you want simply by scrolling down. It’s a true ‘one size fits all’ approach. Even Google is taking notice of the evolution of mobile shopping, having decided to penalise non mobile-friendly websites, which means retailers without one can expect to see their rankings, traffic and ultimately sales fall. What’s more, Google now recommends responsive sites over mobile sites.
MPs urged to value footwear
Ian Tomlinson
ecommerce solution for mobile phones and tablets is not only a must for the big footwear retailers, but for the likes of independent footwear retailers as well. Without a responsive site, you may find you lose potential customers due to the shopping and checkout process being too difficult and search engine rankings dropping. For more information and advice, you can download our free guide comparing responsive and mobile websites at www.cybertill.co.uk/ responsive-vs-mobile
The group also called for government health warnings to be used to encourage an accurate fitting for children’s shoes. Associate professor in podiatry, Dr Mike Curran, was invited as he chairs a consortium of footwear companies – the Healthy Footwear Guide – which includes well known footwear companies such as Hotters, Clarks, DB and Padders. These companies have a range of shoes that are classed as healthy fitting footwear. He said: “I was delighted that we received 29 MPs into the room over the course of the event – something of a record in lobbying MPs on health related issues.”
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DIARYdates Panorama January 19-21, Berlin, Germany
January 31-February 1, London Scoop January 31-February 2, London
Who’s Next and Premiere Classe January 22-25, Porte Jacket Required de Versailles February 3-4, Ispo London January 24-27, GDS Munich February 10-12, Bubble
Düsseldorf
Contacts Sales Tony Barry – Sales & Marketing Director (tb@scriptmedia.co.uk)
Beverley Green – Group Sales
Editorial Contacts Tel: 01226 734694 Email: ce@scriptmedia.co.uk
Manager (bg@scriptmedia.co.uk)
Design & Production
Advertising Contacts Tel: 01226 734333 Fax: 01226 734477
Stewart Holt – Studio Manager (sth@scriptmedia.co.uk) Jess Hancock – Graphic Designer (jhk@scriptmedia.co.uk)
Editorial Judith Halkerston – Group Editor Christina Eccles – Reporter Dominic Musgrave – Reporter
Circulation 01226 734695 (24 hour hotline) Email: circulation@scriptmedia.co.uk
Pure February 14-15, London Moda February 21-23,
NEC, Birmingham Scoop February 21-23, London
RETAIL SOLUTIONS
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