NEW - CUTTING EDGE

THE No.1TRADE MAGAZINE FOR TODAY’S SHOE REPAIRER
SPRING 2015
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CUTTING EDG
See inside for full details!
Cutting Edge is back in Scotland!
HILTON EDINBURGH
AIRPORT HOTEL
Edinburgh International Airport,
Edinburgh EH28 8LL
SUNDAY
March 29t
h
9
.30 to 4pm
BIG NAMES & NEW NAMES
are all on their way to the Hilton Edinburgh Airport Hotel.
Make sure you get there too!
GREAT PRODUCTS AND GOOD DEALS
Lots of your favourite suppliers and several new names will all have
new products, great offers and new money-making ideas covering
every aspect of shoe repair, shoe care, trophies and
engraving to help you make the most of your
business.
So make sure you visit every supplier’s stand
...and you’ll also be able to take home a free
bottle of wine!
FREE
BOTTLE
OF WINE*
Suppliers already
signed up to be there
include:
Charles Birch Ltd
T Colledge & Son
Davenport Burgess
Glenway Products
Grangers International
Gravograph
GRS Footwear
Keyprint Security
Lomond Imaging Ltd
Pioneer Luminum Ltd
Shoestring Laces
Silca UK
Siserve
SKS
T R Lawman
Trans World Trophies
Vibram
Woly
FREE PARKING
FREE ENTRY
And even free teas and
coffees throughout the day!
With all this and more why
would you miss out on this
great exhibition?
* T&Cs apply. For visual purposes only
SAVE TIME ON THE DAY – PRE-REGISTER FOR THIS FREE EVENT: CONTACT CUTTING EDGE NOW
2
CALL 01858 465376 or email [email protected]
3
Contents...
SCOTTISH TRADE EXHIBITION
INFORMATION
p2, 3 & 8
JR SHOE REPAIRER OF THE YEAR
ENTRY FORM
p5 & 6
KEY NOTES FROM THE
CHAIRMAN
p8
THE ONLY WAY IS UP WITH
J RENDENBACH
p10
2015 SHOE REPAIRER
OF THE YEAR
p15
CUTTING EDGE CHARITY
GOLF DAY
p17
SOMSR ‘SERVICES TODAY’
8 page centre section
p21
COMPANY PROFILE:
GRS FOOTWEAR
p30 & 31
SPOTLIGHT on Laura Browne from
SoMSR
p37
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF...
Paul Lister of Cherry Blossom
p40
SOLE TRADER
p42
WEB DIRECTORY
P45
CLASSIFIED ADS
P47
SPRING HAS
NEARLY SPRUNG...
Hello again everyone. I hope you had a
happy Christmas and a great New
Year! It seems ages ago since then
doesn’t it?
about the 2015 competition and a catch up
with Al King the young repairer from
Somerset who was last year’s winner. Look
out for your entry form for the competition
in this issue. It could be you that we are
So here we are - almost four months into
featuring in Cutting Edge in a few months
2015 already, but there is still a lot to look
forward to, places to go, and people to see. time...
I expect like me you are starting to plan
CHANGES AFOOT
your summer holidays... my wife and I can’t
There is also the latest news about two of
decide between Prague or Barcelona for a
city holiday now that our three are going to today’s big names supplying products to
the trade as well as a feature on one
be jetting off with friends this year... but
company that may have been around for
sorry, back to the point... there are also at
135 years but is definitely looking to the
least three dates to look forward to in the
future. I’m sure you’ll find it interesting Cutting Edge calendar too!
particularly if you are in the north of Britain,
March 29th. Edinburgh for the Cutting Edge to find out more on pages 30 & 31 about
Scottish Show, of course. Then, for all you
GRS who are based in Cramlington in the
golfers, June 19th for the second Cutting
far North East of England.
Edge Golf Day in Leicestershire and last,
AND A SPRING IN THE STEP...
but by no means least, it is the Cutting
Edge National Exhibition back at probably
As well as all this there is the usual mix of
the trade’s favourite venue, Sandown Park articles and offers that you would expect to
on September 20th.
see in Cutting Edge, with a particular
emphasis on what is new in shoe care as
IT’S A SECRET!
the seasons for lighter footwear approach.
Sandown will be the place where the name Oh, and don’t forget there is also the
of the winner of this year’s Shoe Repairer
second of the new Services Today
of the Year will be announced for the first
centre page sections from SoMSR to add
time. It is such a secret that even the
to the mix!
competition’s main judge, Ray Barlow won’t
know his or her identity until the day itself! Well, bye for now. It’s back to the holiday
destinations websites for me... I’ve already
Cutting Edge are delighted that this
read this issue of Cutting Edge. It’s very
prestigious competition is going to be
good you know...
sponsored again this year by J
Rendenbach, producers of some of the
world’s highest quality sole leather. You can
read what their Chief Executive has to say
on page 8, followed by an announcement
Plus Product &
Company News
throughout!!
PLEASE MAKE A NOTE
OF THE DEADLINE TO
GET ALL YOUR
EDITORIAL AND
ARTWORK FOR
ADVERTISING TO US.
TH
MAY 4
THANK YOU!
Shoe Repairer of the Year
You could be our next winner!
1st Prize £1000
2nd Prize £500 3rd Prize £250
Your entry must be one pair of
previously worn welted shoes,
only ONE of which must be
repaired using JR Oak Bark
leather soles and heels (supplied
by the Rendenbach Tannery in
the entry pack).
The other shoe must remain in
its original state.
Judging will be carried out by a panel of independent
experts and adjudicated
by Ray Barlow A.C.F.I., L.C.G.I.
The judges’ decision will be final and no correspondence will be
entered into
incorporating The Shoe Repairer.
4500 copies distributed FREE throughout the Shoe
Repair trade to a regularly updated subscribers’ list.
Editorial in this magazine does not represent the
views and policy of The Cutting Edge Organisation,
nor can the editor, production company or Cutting
Edge accept any responsibility for advice given or
product claims made throughout the magazine.
EDITORIAL COMMITTEE
Tony Driver, Editor, 5D Publicity
Gary Unwin, Davenport-Burgess
Peter Coulson, Siserve Ltd
Robin Healy, E. Healy & Sons
Paul Lister, Grangers International
Tim Wilford, Glenway Products Ltd
To enter this prestigious competition
please apply for an information and entry pack to -
Cutting Edge Magazine is designed & produced
by 5D Publicity Ltd.
Cutting Edge, c/o 5D Publicity Ltd,
56 North Park Grove, Leeds LS8 1EW.
For editorial & advertising enquiries phone:
0113 225 1546 or
email: [email protected]
city of Trier, Germany including a tour of the Rendenbach Tannery
Robin
Healy, 186 Bawtry Road, Wickersley,
to see the tanning process of JR leather.
South Yorks S66 1AG
Tel 01709 543335
email [email protected]
The winner will receive a cheque for £600.00 OR 120 pairs of JR
JR
Shoe
offorthe
leather
soles OR Repairer
an all expenses paid trip
two to Year
the beautiful
5
ENTRY FORM
JR Shoe Repairer of the Year 2015
Section A
To obtain materials and instructions please detach and return SECTION A to:Robin Healy, 186 Bawtry Road, Wickersley, South Yorkshire S66 1AG
Name
Delivery address
Post Code
Phone
E-mail
ENTRY FORM
JR Shoe Repairer of the Year 2015
Section B
Please detach and return this section (B) along with your competition entry to:
Robin Healy, 186 Bawtry Road, Wickersley, South Yorkshire, S66 1AG.
Completed entries for the JR Shoe Repairer of the Year 2015 must be returned to
Robin Healy by no later than 28th August.
Full Name
Post Code
Phone
E-mail
Cut out your entry form here
Address
FRONT OF HOUSE:
WHY NOT FOCUS
MORE ON SHOECARE?
The Scottish Vote is a
fantastic place to visit for a
weekend. Scotland’s capital city has
so much to offer so even if you live
further afield maybe it’s time to take
the family for a great day or
weekend away?
Take a look at our
new easy-to-use
website
GREAT THINGS ON OFFER
Here are just a few of the things on
offer in this great city.
We all know the outcome of the
referendum last year and everyone
will have their own opinion of the
outcome. However, we’re sure
there will be a big ‘thumbs up’ from
repairers for the Cutting Edge
committee who decided last year
that it was time to bring the Cutting
Edge back to Scotland for the third
time in 6 years.
It could be said that it is back by
public demand. The attendance at
the two previous shows were so
positive that it was almost
impossible not to make a return
visit.
The cast of exhibitors better than
ever with more than 20 of the
Trade’s leading names manning sorry, personneling(?) - their stands
on March 29th. They will be
showcasing everything from
engraving, and shoe repairing
machines to trophies, laces and
every other consumable you can
imagine.
Just some of the stands you’ll find
there, as well as Cutting Edge and
SoMSR, include at the time of
writing this:
Charles Birch Ltd
T Colledge & Son
Davenport Burgess
Glenway Products
Grangers International
Gravograph
GRS Footwear
Keyprint Security
Lomond Imaging Ltd
Pioneer Luminum Ltd
Shoestring Laces
Silca UK
Siserve
SKS
T R Lawman
Trans World Trophies
Vibram
Woly
Right next to the venue, is the brand
state of the art tram system which
will get you into the centre in about
20 minutes. If you don’t want to go
all the way into the city there is the
world famous Edinburgh Zoo, home
to the equally famous pandas and
hundreds of other species of
animals and birds. A great place to
keep your little monkeys entertained
while you take your time at the
Cutting Edge show!
Over the last thirty years the shoe
repair trade has seen many changes
and diversification has been the
watch word for most successful
businesses.
Head into the city and you have all
the shops you would expect, as well
as the world famous Jenners
department store as well as the Her
Majesty the Queen’s
favourite store, Harvey
Nichols. All of this under
the shadow of the most
recognisable castle in the
UK.
The addition of extra services has led
to changes in front of house displays
and the introduction of different types
of retail products; changing the look
of the shoe repairer on the high street.
Traditionally a strong shoecare offer
filled the limited space available in
most shoe repair shops. Gradually
however over the years sign and
engraving displays, Zippos, tankards,
trophies and even handbags and
luggage have eroded the space
available to shoecare. Overall this
has been a good thing for the trade
generating extra sales for the shoe
repairer.
We could probably go on
forever, but all we should say
is say make ‘Cutting Edge,
Edinburgh 29 March 2015’ a
must in your calendar.
At the same popular venue as
before, the Hilton Edinburgh Airport,
the show is ideally located for
visitors from North, South, East and
West of Scotland, as well as
Northern England as it is perfectly
placed on the motorway network.
However, with the trade’s biggest
competitor, the INTERNET, pinching
large chunks of the engravable
merchandise from the High Street,
perhaps it is time to reassess the
priority of shoecare in this premium
front of house area?
As well as the promise of another
great show, Edinburgh itself is a
There is no doubt that there is a
direct correlation between the level
for example of lace sales and the
size of the lace display. This is only
accentuated by the recent fashion
for brightly coloured laces not only in
the youngsters Vans and Converse
casual footwear but also in more
formal shoes. A bigger lace display
equals bigger sales.
Likewise with polishes, cleaners and
renovators, there are more specialist
leathers and materials appearing on
the high street than ever, again in a
variety of colours. The first port of
call for most people would be the
local shoe repairer. Do we have that
specialist cleaner in stock? Is our
display up to scratch? Have we got
the suede renovator to match the
colour of all those UGG boots?
The case for carrying an extensive,
superbly well displayed range of
shoecare is a strong one, not only for
the boost in sales but also, if you
avoid brands that are shot to pieces
in the supermarkets and pound
stores, great profits.
...for simply great value
www.edwardhealy.co.uk
FREE
PHONE
CASH AND CARRY
At our busy depot we’ve got
the very best in shoe repair
and shoe care products.
All at very special prices.
And now we can supply them
direct to your door when you
order and pay with your
ACCESS/VISA/SWITCH card
Chris Wilson
Charles Birch Group
KEY NOTES from the Chairman
As we all look forward to the
longer days and the better
weather and the rest of the year
to come I want to take this first
opportunity in 2015 to
congratulate our editor on such a
grand job of producing your
Cutting Edge magazine. I have
known Tony Driver since he took
on the task of editing this
publication and in my opinion he
produces a trade publication of
which we can all be proud.
The work involved is surprisingly
intensive. Right from the first
8
editorial meeting where ideas are
suggested and information is gained,
to the final design and artwork of the
pages Tony and his small team at 5D
Publicity make the magazine
informative and interesting for all
readers whatever their field of work
within the trade. In my opinion the
magazine improves with every issue
and in order to keep up standards he
needs all our input - from suppliers
and readers alike.
So let’s help to keep the flow of
interesting articles going so that
Cutting Edge continues to be the
magazine we all want to read and is
the voice and vision of the shoe
repair trade.
Before I joined the Cutting Edge
committee I had little idea how much
goes into the organisation and
running of the organisation. One
thing I have learned over the years is
how important it is to listen to what
the trade wants and needs to know.
So I would like to invite anyone to
attend a committee meeting to see
what happens, how much planning
goes into the Cutting Edge year and
perhaps put forward their ideas,
0800 328 0709
views and opinions. Please contact
Rachel Jarvis, our company secretary
for details of future meetings and
where and when they will be.
Rachel can be contacted
[email protected] or by
phone 01858 465376.
Don’t forget we have two
important Trade Shows and a
Charity Golf Day coming in 2015
so let’s all get involved and
support these events as we all
need each other.
Gary
FREE
PHONE
9
TAKE THE HIGH TECH LINE WITH TARRAGO
THE ONLY
WAY IS
UP!
Are things really looking up for the
repair trade?
If you read this magazine you are
almost certainly involved in shoe
repair in some way, so you will
probably have noticed that over the
last couple of years the trade has
begun to change.
Some repairers, especially the big
names on the High Street, have
diversified even more into offering
services other than shoe repair.
Some seem to have decided that the
‘quick, cheap fix’ approach to shoe
repair is the way to go.
However, more and more of those
who are thinking more long term
have decided that to offer a higher
quality service to their customers is
the better approach, especially now
that even the younger customers
seem to be favouring higher quality
footwear from established UK brands
once only worn by their fathers.
TRADITIONAL VALUES
The world, it seems, can’t get
enough of our English shoes. These
traditionally-made, solid-looking
footwear styles have been in fashion
for the last few years, and they show
no sign of falling out of favour any
time soon.
Built to last a lifetime, English shoes
are designed to be repaired over and
over again, and perfectly
complement the more refined,
tailoring based form of dress that
today’s style-conscious gent favours.
To fulfil this worldwide demand,
companies such as Church’s and
John Lobb are expanding their
manufacturing bases in the
traditional home of British
shoemaking, Northamptonshire. UK
Plc is seeing a renaissance in homegrown manufacturing, which can only
be a good thing.
It can only be a good thing for
repairers too, because top-notch
shoes need someone to do the topnotch repairing! However, those
quality repairs require quality
materials as well as the repairer’s
skill. Fortunately there is one
company that is renowned
worldwide for the high quality
leather and soles it has been
producing for longer than some of
these manufacturers have been in
business.
Of course, that company is
J Rendenbach, the German firm that
you will all know.
For over 140 years, JR have
maintained their enviable reputation
by concentrating on producing some
of the highest quality sole leather
available. Their production process
still uses the original traditional oak
bark ground tanning method that can
take up to nine months for the finest
leather to be ready.
When Hanns Rendenbach, the
company’s CEO, took time out from
one of his many world-wide business
trips to chat with Cutting Edge he
was keen to share his view of the
current repair trade. During a break
on his way to Northampton he told
us “In recent months I have
witnessed the growth of the
traditional cobbler’s craft for myself
in Manhattan and Tokyo but I believe
that the biggest change is actually
here in the UK.”
10
water, oil and fatty soilings will not
stick to the surface, and will instead
run off like little pearls due to the
same “intelligent” fluorocarbon
polymer content.
Now Tarrago are proud to offer
excellent protection and cleaning
power for all leather types and any
situation. Quick and easy application
means that rain and dirt are never a
problem and regular use actually
prolongs the life of all types of
leather footwear and clothing.
Tarrago Nano Cream is a nourishing,
waterproofing and dirt-repellent
cream which contains 31% original
beeswax, which gives great softness
and nourishment to the leather. This
fluid colourless cream is specially
recommended for smooth High
Tech leathers and technical
materials like Gore Tex, as it
does not affect breathability
Tarrago Nano Protector
provides an innovative topclass protection thanks to its
“intelligent” fluorocarbon
polymer content which forms
an invisible protective film with
a surface similar to that of a
lotus leaf. This ‘Lotus Effect’
decreases the surface tension
of leather or textiles so water,
oil and grease are efficiently
repelled.
“We are happy to be supplying more
and more quality leather products to
manufacturers worldwide particularly in Northampton, but we
are also pleased to realise that more
repairers here are choosing to work
with our materials.”
Over the last ten years, JR have
increased the production of heel
blocks and complete sole units to
meet the needs of both
manufacturers and discerning
repairers. These products
complement their traditional leather
soles. In fact they use the same
quality JR leather without the
addition of wood or paper used by
some competitors, but their products
are still offered at very attractive
prices. The latest addition to the JR
range is a new full sole and heel for
ladies’ shoes. Stilettos may be
slightly out of fashion at the moment
but apparently it is not just fashion
conscious males who are beginning
to realise the merits of a quality
repair.
75 years of leather care expertise
have gone into the latest High Tech
line from Tarrago and now the range
has been extended based on their
revolutionary Nano Technology.
Tarrago Nano Leather Wax is a
nourishing power leather cream high
performance colouring and
waterproofing of both smooth and
synthetic leather. Its formulation with
natural waxes such as beeswax and
selected pigments makes any smooth
leather remain as new for longer. High
tech treated leather keeps its original
waterproofing and breathability.
Available colourless or black.Not
suitable for suede and nubuck.
Tarrago Nano Leather Refresh Colour
Renovator revitalises the original
colour of the smooth leather or
synthetic garment or footwear, with
powerful waterproof protection and
additional oil-based nutrition lanolin.
Nourishes and adds shine without
brushing. Recommended for Gore Tex
and other High Tech membranes.
Available only in black.
To revive the color and appearance of
nubuck, suede and velvet leather
there is now Tarrago Nano Nubuck
Renovator for great recolouring
power and to add a powerful
additional waterproofing. Also
suitable for Gore Tex membranes
and other High Tech leathers.
Available in neutral and black.
For more information about
High Tech or any Tarrago
products contact TColledge &
Son on 0117 9717154 or go to
www.tcolledgeandson.com
Following recent
events in the news
TColledge & Son are
pleased to announce
that they will continue
to distribute Tarrago &
Saphir brands.
Tarrago Oil Nano Protector
offers your customer even
better waterproofing and
protection, and thanks to its
nutritive oil content it not only
enhances the material to which
it is applied but also dust,
Hanns continued “The quality of the
work produced by many of the
repairers from the bigger multiple
chains is obviously very good, but we
are so impressed with the talent of
last year’s winner Al King and
repairers like him that we really hope
that they take full advantage of a
great opportunity like this to get
rewarded for all their hard work.”
So there you have it. One of the
world’s best leather suppliers is
proud of you – so why not show
them just how good you are by
entering the competition this year.
There really is nothing to stop you
winning a great prize and raising your
own profile. As we said at the start
of this article... the only way is Up!
NEXT DAY
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Rendenbach have sponsored the
Shoe Repairer of the Year
competition for several years so we
asked Hanns if this was likely to
continue. “Most definitely. At JR we
have been more and more impressed
with the standard of the entries that
have been received in recent
competitions and we are very keen
to support shoe repairers here in
the UK.”
and provides high protection, but is
not suitable for suede, textile or
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C O M PA N Y N E W S + C O M PA N Y N E W S + C O M PA N Y N E W S + C O M PA N Y N E W S
SC JOHNSON & WOLY
- A BRAND NEW DEAL
ALMA TAKES A
SHINE TO DASCO
At the beginning of February,
Dunkelman & Son Ltd (known
throughout the trade as ‘Dasco
the shoe care specialists’) was
acquired by Alma FRC.
The Dunkelman family have been
proud to carry on the family
ownership of Dunkelman for many
years now, following in the footsteps
of Freddie Dunkelman who founded
the business in 1946. ‘As the main
shareholders are now in their 60s, it
has become important that the
future of the company is secured’,
said Phil Luckett, Dunkelman Chief
Executive.
‘The family are delighted to have
found a company that are keen to
take over Dunkelman & Son. Alma
FRC is also a family-owned business
with a long history in shoe care.
Experienced in selling leather care
and shoe accessories to shoe
retailers and shoe repairers means
they understand the trade and they
really appreciate our core values of
quality, service and innovation’.
Alma FRC is based in France and
already owns:
• a shoe care business in France Avel s.a.s., whose Saphir Medaille
D’Or and Saphir Beauté du Cuir
brands are rated top-of-the-range
shoe care in Europe.
• a shoe tree and shoe accessories
business in France - Perfecta
s.a.s., with its La Cordonnerie
Anglaise brand.
C O M PA N Y N E W S + C O M PA N Y N E W S + C O M PA N Y N E W S + C O M PA N Y N E W S
• a shoe care business in Spain Terragó Brands International s.l.,
with its well-known Terragó brand.
Alma FRC already exports to more
than 70 countries and plan to grow
the Dasco business not only in the
UK but also worldwide. With the
backing of the Alma group, the
company will be in a position to offer
you the most complete range of
shoe accessories in the world. While
the new enhanced range of premium
quality leather care brands will
enable you to attract new customers
- customers who are looking for
quality, value and innovation.
The directors and senior
management of Dunkelman & Son
will remain in place, except for
Stephen Dunkelman, who as a
shareholder, will be stepping down.
Marc Moura, Chief Executive of Alma
FRC, will be joining the Dunkelman &
Son board as Chairman. Phil Luckett
(Chief Executive), Kevin Burton
(Sales Director) and John Hummel
(Operations Director) will continue to
run the business from Desborough
and to provide you with an
outstanding service, backed now
with the resources of Alma FRC
group. Dunkelman will also remain
sole distributor for Kiwi and Bama to
the specialist trades.
‘This is a very exciting time for the
company and we look forward to
discussing our plans with you in the
near future’, concludes Phil Luckett.
www.dunkelman.com
Shoe-String are very proud to
have been working with SC
Johnson for the past 18 months,
a family organisation and to have
brand name Woly joining the
other quality brands, such as
Glade, Raid, Kiwi, Bama, Mr
Muscle and Pledge.
In December 2013 Woly became a
legal entity of SC Johnson, becoming
the manufacturers of Woly. The
move has only meant positives for
Woly and Shoe-String, with Shoe
Care production at the SC Johnson
facility in Germany and Poland.
leading manufacturers of household
cleaning products and products for
home storage, air care, pest control
and shoe care. It markets such wellknown brands as GLADE®,
PLEDGE®, RAID®, and many more.”
SC Johnson and Melvo have been
working in synergy, the expertise in
business and trade will delivering a
fresh new energy to shoe care. Woly
have been delivering quality shoe
care for over 80 years and with the
new changes, the Woly brand will
continue to deliver high standards to
people across the world for the
future.
Shoe-String are the UK distributors
for Woly. A family business that have
worked hard and built up a fantastic
reputation for Woly and already have
a wealth of demands for Woly.
Joining the SC Johnson family has
improved brand awareness and
business forecasts, working with
“SC Johnson is a family company
dedicated to innovative, high-quality
products, excellence in the
workplace and a long-term
commitment to the environment and
the communities in which it
operates. Based in the USA, the
company is one of the world’s
Caroline Collins, Shoe-String's MD on a visit to Melvo's new manufacturing site alongside other distributors
Charles Birch and the wholesalers
giving repairers the opportunity of
smaller deliveries, the future is
looking fantastic. Already Woly has
explored new products and
packaging options to develop and
conform with Europe’s new CLP
regulations.
The new prospects for Woly are
going to have a positive impact on
sales in shoe stores and shoe
repairers which is good for Charles
Birch and our network of wholesalers
across the country and Shoe-String
are rising to the challenge to meet
business demands.
If you have not already considered
Woly in your range, take a fresh look
at what the brand can offer you.
THE 2015 SHOE REPAIRER OF THE YEAR
COMPETITION – WITH JR AGAIN!
K
KioskGift
i oskG if t
The
T he NE W I nstant
nstan t Dig
Digital
ital P
Printing
r in ting S olution
The
The NEW
NEW KioskGift
KioskGift digital
digital printing
printing solution from
from
Mitsubishi
Electric
Mitsubishi Elec
tric ccomes
omes fully cconfigured
onfigured and
ready
perfectly
ready to
to use.
use. Designed
Designed tto
o fit per
fectly within the
busy retail
printing
retail environment,
environment, instant
instant digital
digital prin
ting
has never
profitable.
never been so pr
ofitable.
The Cutting Edge committee is
delighted that Hanns Rendenbach
has confirmed that JR are keen
to continue sponsoring the Shoe
Repairer of the Year competition
and even more pleased that he,
like them, is hoping to see more
entries from the wealth of skilled
and creative repairers that we
know there are in Britain.
JR were particularly impressed with
Al King who won the 2014
competition. In fact Stefanie
Kamminga, Assistant to the Chief
Executive at J Rendenbach said
recently:
“We at JR were deeply impressed by
the spirit and creativity of this young,
talented man and indeed we are
looking forward to supporting more
talents like him in the future.”
GREAT POTENTIAL BENEFITS
As well as the obvious attraction of a
£1000 first prize, the competition
offers other potential benefits to shoe
repairers - young or not so young!
Previous winners have had their
profiles raised by having both local
and national media take an interest in
them. Their local community then
knew that they are very good at what
they do so they were more likely to
choose to have their shoes, etc
repaired by the winner of a
prestigious national competition.
As for Al, he seems to have become
quite a local celebrity and by putting
photos of some of his recent work on
Facebook and Instagram he has
developed quite a considerable
following and has apparently inspired
repairers from around the world to
raise their games too.
INTERESTING TIMES
We thought it would be interesting to
find out what he’s been up to workwise in the last few months so we
spoke to him recently and he also
sent us some examples of his work
which we are pleased to show you.
Here’s what Al had to say.
“A lot seems to have happened since
last year’s JR & Cutting Edge Shoe
Repairer of the Year competition. I’ve
always enjoyed seeking excellence in
everything I do and I believe we’re all
created to be the best we can. So
even just being a part of such a
prestigious event with so many
quality craftsmen taking part was an
honour and it has helped me to
appreciate creativity and quality work
in a brand new way. I believe the
competition is a fantastic way of
nurturing craftsman our industry.
Since winning the contest I’ve
worked hard at improving in the areas
I know I could have done better on
with my entry, for instance my stitch
line maybe wasn’t as good as it could
have been and I’ve been applying
those improvements throughout my
everyday work.
I’m enjoying pushing the boundaries
with finishes and the contest gave
me a great confidence boost in this
area. I count it a huge blessing to be
able to apply the artistic nature
God gave me to my repair
work.
I believe that being able to
offer customers bespoke
finishes and designs gives a
basically traditional industry a
contemporary edge. I think this
could become an important part
of the craftsman repairer’s work
because I am sure that like me,
other young repairers are also
very aware of a generation of
younger customers who now favour
the classic look of vintage leather
soled shoe styles.”
Al King with JR's Stefanie Kamminga
Some examples
of Al's recent
work
We hope that after the 2015 winner
is announced at Sandown in
September we will be able to feature
you in the pages of Cutting Edge too.
It’s up to you!
Woly 3 x 3 Protector - now
available from Charles Birch
with an extra 20% FREE
Plus
FREE W
A3 PO OLY
AVAIL STERS
ABLE
ON
REQU
EST
• Instant
Instant pr
print
int 6
6x4”
6x4”,
4””, 6x6”
6 6”” and
d 6x8”
• ID phot
o pr
inting option
photo
printing
• EasyGift
EasyGifft creation
creation
ulti-touch screen
screen
• 23”” M
Multi-touch
FLOOR
FLOOR STANDING
STANDING
Only
Only 633mm wide
eceipt printer
printer built in
•R
Receipt
With the Magic
With
installed,, users ccan
an
Magic Foto
Foto app installed
view video messages embedded
view
any photo
photo
embedded in any
created ffor
created
Magic
feature.
or the M
agic Foto
F
ulti function
function card
card reader
reader USB
•M
Multi
devices
iFi D
ongle for
fo
or smart
smart devices
•W
WiFi
Dongle
• NEW
NEW Magic
Magic Foto
Foto activated
activated
• Professional
Proffessional
e
point of sale decoration
decoration
point
• Full
Full support
support & installation
installation pack
age aavailable
vailable
package
* PC specifica
specification
tion ma
mayy change dur
during
ing pr
production.
oduction.
IInternet
nternet access
access required
required for
for some gifting
giffting
t
services
services
and also online support.
support.
F
For
or mor
more
e inf
information
ormation or tto
o find y
your
our lo
local
cal st
stockist:
ockist:
14
mitsubishielectric-printing.com
mitsubishielectric-printing.com
London
L
ondon
N
orth & M
idlands
North
Midlands
S
outh
South
Scotland
S
cotland
[email protected]
[email protected]
Richard
R
ichard Frankfurt
Frankfurt Photographic
Photographic
R
oskerr
Roskerr
SSystem
ystem Insight
Insight
LLomond
omond IImaging
maging
020 8665 9775
01772 498594
01329 835500
01389 720476
[email protected]
sales@r
ichardfrankfurt.co.uk
sales@r
oskerr.co.uk
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
Order now from your local Charles Birch Representative
or Leeds Freephone 0800 591558
or Rochford Freephone 0800 585313.
www.charlesbirch.com
15
CHARLES BIRCH MAKES THE GRADE AGAIN
New Premium
Grade Leather
Soles from
Charles Birch
Charles Birch have
launched their latest
range of leather soles
in February simply
named “PREMIUM
GRADE” reflecting the fact that
Birch are only selling the first selection soles that
are coming out of the tannery.
Managing Director, Chris Wilson explained
“Following the huge price increases in recent
times from out traditional leather tanners, we
decided to source further afield in order to try to
offer our customers a leather sole of good quality
at an affordable price. With the Premium Grade
sole we are very confident that we have achieved
just that”.
Birch settled on 2013 European Tannery of the
Year, Sepiciler, a Turkish tannery with a great
reputation for producing fine quality sole leather
mainly for the shoe manufacturing industry.
CHARITY GOLF DAY
“There are significant savings against our
traditional Italian suppliers and the strong pound
also enables us to pass on extra savings to our
customers whilst not compromising on quality”
said Chris.
Sepiciler
tanning pits
The new
Premium
Grade
leather
half soles
are
currently
available
from both
Leeds and
Rochford
Charles Birch
warehouses.
All soles have to pass the strict selection process
II
ANOTHER ‘HOLE’ LOT OF FUN
FOR A VERY GOOD CAUSE
Calling all Golfers! Join us on Friday 19th June 2015
At Kilworth Springs Premier Golf Club, North Kilworth, Leics.
In aid of THE JIMMY MIZEN FOUNDATION
Leather Bends ready for cutting
It will be a great day and you will be
helping to raise funds for a very
worthwhile cause too.
We will start the day right with a
Breakfast at 9am with freshly made
Bacon or Sausage baps and tea and
coffee on offer.
Then it is onto the course to Tee Off at
10.30 for 18 holes in teams of 4 with a
‘Shotgun Start’.
At around 4pm there will be a 2 Course
Dinner after what is sure to be an
excellent day of skill, flair and - knowing
how the golf usually goes at the Cutting
Edge AGM days - quite a few laughs
along the way!
Then to finish off the day nicely there
will be a Presentation of Trophies and a
Raffle before we all head off home.
To take part in this memorable day
will cost each player just £50.
You can either enter a team of four
players, or just register yourself and
we can put you into a team with
other players.
WE ARE ALSO LOOKING FOR
SPONSORS TO HELP RAISE
EVEN MORE FUNDS ON THE
DAY
How about sponsoring
a hole, a trophy,
a raffle prize?
Even better, the
whole day!?
For more details and to register your entry
CALL 01858 465376 or
email [email protected] NOW !
16
17
SILCA AIR4
REMOTES
A new range of residential remotes
now available to boost your business
NEW
M
ySilca Ap
p
NOW A
VAILAB
LE
Click o
n th
MySilca e Remote Tut
orial on
App for
th
more in
formatio e
n.
Widest remote coverage in Europe
Three different models for extensive
radio frequency coverage
Simple duplication procedure
Stores up to 4 remotes in one device
Designed & manufactured in Italy
Light, compact,
durable &
splashproof design
Now available from the Charles Birch Group ask your representative about the special package deal.
Tel: Leeds Freephone 0800 591558 or Rochford Freephone 0800 585313.
www.charlesbirch.com
18
19
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r a ti v e
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yo en ll th ay.
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As pre or c to
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TODAY
NEW
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Can you afford not to?
MEMBERSHIP FROM 32P A DAY
SOMSR OFFERS
. UP
UPMARKET
MARKET POSTERS
. INFORMATION
INFORMATION
T
ON TR
TRAINING
AINING
. POINT OF SALE
. EMPLOYMENT
EMPLOYMENT INFORMATION
INFORMAT
TION
. LEGAL HELP
KEY BLANK CATALOGUE
That’s cheaper than a bag of rice from Sainsbury’s
. DIGIT
DIGITAL
TA
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HELP
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hardworking
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master shoe repairers?
repairers? Massive
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--Add
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distribution
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Advertising spac
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monthly new
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excellent tr
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ESSENTIAL FOR ALL KEY CUTTERS
HANDY
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KEY
KITS
DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR THE
UK KEY MARKET
OVER 4,400 KEY BLANK REFERENCES
IImprove
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ricing
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ALL IN 1 - CYLINDER, CAR,
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NOW INCLUDES CAR REMOTES
EASY TO USE WITH INFORMATIVE
TABS AND INDEX
44 ADDITIONAL PAGES
EEDITION
DITION
3
365
65
20
pag
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Words From Laura...
Aw
warm
arm welcome
welcome to
to this quarter’s
quarter ’s SServices
ervices
TToday.
oda
o y. I wish you
you all a prosperous
prosperous new year
year and
thatt business will thr
thrive.
ive. SOMSR has rreehope tha
fantastic
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over
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that yyou
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xcited as I am ffor
or
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upcoming
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upc
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Cutting Edge
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there
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SOMSR – flying up on the SSaturday
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if you
you see me,
me, mine’s
mine’s an Amaretto
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If yyou
If
ou are
are planning on attending
attending I will be tak
taking
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phot
ographs of our members so g
give
ive me a
wave.
We
currently
have
spaces
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adv
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newsletter
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webebsite,
sit
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contact me ffor
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more
e inf
information
for
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01858 467467.
We are
We
are getting more
more and more
more internet
internet traffic
traffic
ccoming
oming thr
through
ough our ‘F
‘Find
ind a R
Repairer’
epairer ’ page on
www.somsr.com
w
ww.somsr.com which means more
more attention
attention
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drawn
awn to
to SOMSR members.
members. IIff you
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1 Key Care
Care Kit
Kit - Approx.
Approx. 1000 W
allets & C
ards £39.99
Wallets
Cards
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hat’s all ffor
or no
o
now!
w!
2 Key Care
Care Kit
Kit - Approx.
Approx. 2000 W
allets & C
ards £65.99
Wallets
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Laura
3 Key Care
Care Kit
Kit - Approx.
Approx. 3000 W
allets & C
ards £91.00
Wallets
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Order
Or
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w! C
Call
all 01858 4382555
Producing Quality Key Blanks
P
Page
age 1
The
The SSociety
ociety of M
Master
aster Shoe R
Repairers,
epairers, Join Today!
To
oday!
01858 4382555
21
ALUMINIUM
SNAP FRAME
NEED A
HELPLINE?
Have You
o Got Yours?
ou
o
Buy One Snap Frame
Price £30.00
Helpline numbers ar
are
e aavailable
vailable ffor
or
o
members tto
o call ffor
or
o fr
free
ee advic
advice.
e. Just
our membership number when
quote
quot
e yyour
yyou
ou call
call..
Buy Two Snap Frames
Price £52.00 Save £8.00
MACHINERY
MACHINERY
Buy Three Snap Frames
Price £72.00 Save £18.00
Siserve
Siserve
TT:: 0116 271 7152
FF:: 0116 271 9413
Buys Four Snap Frames
Price £88.00 Save £32.00
KEYS
K
EYS
Peter
Peter Morgan
Morgan or John Wilkin
Wilkin at
at SKS
T:
T: 01737 355465 or 01442 291400
E: [email protected]
[email protected]
LOCKS
LOCKS & SECURIT
SECURITY
Y
Chris
Chris Fennesy
Fennesy at
at SKS
T:
T: 01442 291400
E: chr
[email protected]
[email protected]
WATCHES
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Peter
eter Tales
Tales
a
TT:: 07596 547686
E: inf
[email protected]
fo@hor
o@ho
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ologyconsulting.co.uk
PATCHERS
P
ATCHERS & SE
SEWING
WING M
MACHINES
ACHINES
Robb
Robb Myers
Myers at
at Sew
Sew Amazing
Amazing
T:
T: 020 8980 8898
E: [email protected]
[email protected]
SHOE REP
REPAIRS
PAIRS
A AND
ANDADHESIVES
ADHESIVES
Robb
Robb Myers
Myers at
at Sew
Sew Amazing
Amazing
T:
T: 020 8980 8898
SPECIALIST ADHESIVES
Dennis
Dennis Bramble
Bramble at
at Q
Quick
uick Fix
Fix UK
T:
T: 01636 703629
ENGRAVING
ENGR
AV
VIN
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James Murray
Murray at
at James Shoe C
Care
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t: 0795847
07958479361
22
Page 2
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The SSociety
ociety of M
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01858 4382555
Material:
M
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Aluminium FFrame
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info.
A-Board Pavement Sign
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ll Laura for a quote on
01858 4382555
Or email
[email protected]
The
The SSociety
ociety of M
Master
aster Shoe R
Repairers,
epairers, Join Today!
Tod
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01858 4382555
Page
P
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23
4 Things
Things Y
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Last
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Week
Get £60 off your membership!
Arthur J. Gallagher works in
close partnership with the
Repair
Society of Master Shoe Repairers (SoMSR), as its approved
broker for all members. Its
extensive experience, expertise
and knowledge of the sec
sector means it is well placed to
mitigate shoemaker and shoe
repair insurance
ance risks, cost eff-fectively and simply.
market, so we’re here to
answer all your questions and
to recommend only the insur
insurance you really need.
Clients who’ve had bad expe
experiences elsewhere tell us how
much they appreciate this. We
can arrange bespoke footwear
insurance solutions covering
all aspects of your business,
from buildings, capital assets,
Bhavin continues: “We already stock, employers’ and public
liability, as well as offfering
f
risk
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can arrange bespoke footwear
contact Arthur J. Gallagher,
insurance solutions covering all To cont
aspects of your business, from please call 0116 264 4659.
buildings, capital assets, stock, Alternatively, please visit
employers’ and public liability, www.ajginternational.com
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VRODUV\VWHPDQG(DUWKVLWVLVWKRXJKWWREHDW
OHDVWOLJKW\HDUVDFURVVDQGKDYHPRUH
WKDQELOOLRQVWDUVOLNHRXUVXQHDFKZLWKLWV
RZQRUELWLQJSODQHWVBBC
4
7KH&RQVHUYDWLYHVKDYHEHHQDFFXVHG
RI³WU\LQJWREX\WKHHOHFWLRQ´DVWKH\VOLSSHG
WKURXJKDQXQSUHFHGHQWHGKLNHLQFDPpaign spending. The Electoral Commission
has spoken out against “excessive spending to
SUHYHQWWKHSHUFHSWLRQRIXQGXHLQÀXHQFHRYHU
the outcome of the election”. The To
ories have
amassed a £78m war chest over the past four
years. The Times
N
I
E
R
E
H
W
D
L
R
O
W
THE
Your Thoufrgeshhfrts
om the inbox
Thoughts and feedback
“Loving
“Loving the new look and logo! It
It reminds
reminds me of the “old
“old
o man”
man” leather
leather sole logo.
logo. Even
Even
though I was
was on the ccouncil
ouncil tha
thatt changed the name tto
o MSA, I nev
never
er liked it and insist
insisted
ed w
we
e
kept the SoMSR
SoMSR option. I can now
now see a potential
potential or
organisation
ganisation along the lines tha
thatt I en
envivisioned all those years
years ago.
ago. (When
( When the name was
was changed from
from St.
St. C
Crispins
rispins B
BTA,
TA
A, I suggest
suggest-was young
ed the name “Guild
“Guild of Master
Master Shoe Repairers”
Repairers” but I was
young and easily persuaded.
persuaded. I am
t, but I look
not able to
to get into
into the ““store”
store” aatt the momen
moment,
ok fforward
or
o ward tto
o seeing the new pr
promoomoers with the logo and ““member
tional ma
material.
terial. Can
Can I suggest door post
posters
member 2015”” dispatched
dispatched
with or inst
instead
ead of the annual certificate
certificate of membership
membership.. A
Ass yyou
ou can pr
probably
obably ttell
ell fr
from
om the
excited by
by this new development.
development.” — Ted
ttenor
enor of this email,
email, I am really
really excited
Te
ed Starzec
Starzec
Let us know your thoughts! [email protected]
24
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oday!
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ociety of M
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oda
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P
age 5
25
Up Y
U
Your Service
S i
iin Your
Y
Store
As a shoe repairers we all
cut keys, reprogram trantran
sponder car keys, duplidupli
cate door entry systems
and electronic fobs and on
the less technical side we
even sell shoe polishes.
T
I
K
L
A
V
I
V
R
U
S
BUSINESS
experience in the trade as they
ZLOOEHUHSUHVHQWLQJ\RXUFRPpany.
+DYHDQXQGHUVWDQGLQJEHWZHHQ
you and the locksmith i.e. the
SHUFHQWDJHVSOLWIRUMREVWKH\GR
the standard price structure they
Some of us offffer engraving ZLOOEHXVLQJHYHQWKRXJK,DYRLG
as a service, supply trophies the price conversation with the
DQGPD\EHGRZDWFKUHSDLUV customers – this can take up too
much of your time, all you really
WRREXWKDYH\RXWKRXJKW
DERXWRIIHULQJ\RXUFXVWRP- need to do is take down their
QDPHDQGQXPEHUH[SODLQWKDW
ers a locksmith’s service
they will get a call from the locklock
as well. I’m no locksmith
smith within an agreed time that
but this is an additional
custom you and the locksmith set (ours
service I offer my customLVPLQVDQGUHDVVXUHWKH
ers in my A1 ShoeCare,
WynterXpress shop in Grays customer that the locksmith will
Shopping Centre. First you explain everything they need to
know. Promoting this service
have to get a trusted, relireli
is easy and virtually free - just
DEOHORFNVPLWKZKRKDV
EHHQ&5%FKHFNHGDQGWKH\ have a laminated sign in your
should have at least 5 years’ shop. We also advertise the
Are you ready for the new
businesses to take over?
service on our smart car,
Fakey tags, our website, Fa
. Anothcebook and
d Twitter
w
HUJRRGWLSLVWRKDYHDEDFN
up locksmith who can carry
RXWMREVLI\RXUSUHIHUUHGRQH
is away on holiday.
Feel free to get in touch if
you require further info
Martin Wynter Xpress
Twitter:
w
@sh
@shoedoctorjsc
)DFHERRN6KRHGRFWRU0DUtin
7HO
CAN
AN CUSTOMERS
CUST
C
OMERS
FIND
ND YOU
YOU EASILY?
EASIL
LY
Y?
Have you check
ked
e your SOMSR advertising?
If you still have the default image and basic
information then you wont be found easily
online. Check your store at www.somsr.com
and send us any more information you want
on your section.
y
p
y
,
, g
or anything you have that you want to
use to represent your store!
If you have any more inffo
ormation about your
store - opening times, description, services
provided - and you want to add this info,
simply reply to one of our news letters or email
. om
direct to [email protected]
Help
elp us aadvertise you!
26
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ociety of M
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aster Shoe R
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epairers, Join
Jo Today!
y!
01858
0 858 4382555
38 5
Yo
ou, the independent shoe
repairer, also have the advantage
of being able to react quickly
to the needs of your customers
and the local market. When a
large company has a strategyy, it
has to work across their whole
estate and if they get it wrong it
As you may have heard, Timpson’s are rumoured to be open- could cost literally millions. You
ing 150 stores across the UK in can experiment with promotions
and new stock lines that can give
Te
esco carparks. It’s no mystery
why Timpson’s are successful as you the edge and keep those
customers loyal.The Society of
the nation moves into the fast
food, fast networking, quick in- Master Shoe Repairers is putting
ternet downloads, instant mov- all energy into giving you the
ies and now instant shoe repair tools to prepare for the takeover.
generation. Convenience is a
We believe that working on im
imkey factor provided by Timppr
o
ving
y
our
ser
vic
es
and
pr
esff,, get
son’s, drop your shoes off
your shopping, get your shoes, entation before a competitor
comes to a store is better than
go home. Done. But you have
initially losing business and trysomething Timpson’s don’t.
ing to catch up. We have heard
Most of our members are busi- accounts of repairers losing over
business owners with one or a small £300 weekly profits from busi
number of shops. It also means ness competition.
Well, branding sells, if you look
like you’re willing to spend
time maintaining a qualqual
ity looking shop, then more
customers are going to want
to come in. After gaining the
initial repair job, you can then
use your high quality skills to
ensure that you win a loyal,
returning customer.
Convenience is key. Having
the ability to walk into the
cobblers and get your photos
developed whilst you cut a
new key to your house – how
great is that? Consider updating your store with up to date
equipment, if you have more
to off
ffe
er the ccustomerr, you
become part of the microwave
generation, everything is done
fast and under the same rooff.
SOMSR have a new section in
the Members Area on
www. somsr.com with rethat in the majority of cases the
search, tips and advice on
customer is served by the own- Small things such as fresh
surviving the Timpson’s take
déc
or
r
,
up
-t
o
da
t
e
poin
t
of
er of the business or a family
over. We’re also offering a kit
sale, staff clothes and
member. This potentially gives
of
staff clothes, point of sales
the customer a much stronger window displays sound
and posters that you’ll need to
attachment to the independent like tedious, unimportant details
prepare your business for new
– as long as of course, he or she – I mean, whats really important
challenges.
in
the
shoe
r
epair
ing
,
key
cutting
receives excellent service.
and engraving quality, right? –
The
The SSociety
ociety of M
Master
aster Shoe R
Repairers,
epairers, Join Today!
Tod
o y!
oda
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P
age 7
27
Watch
W
atch Repairs, It’s Political
When your watch has stopped
it doesn’t really matter how far
away the next general election
is, and for most it doesn’t really
PDWWHUZKHQLW¶V¿[HGDJDLQ
XQLYHUVLW\IHHVEORRPLQJ7RULHV%XW
hang on a moment here, I hadn’t cut
my last UL1, no sir. The wonderful
team at Greens suggested
PD\EH,VKRXOGDSSO\WR
-DPHV6KRH&DUHEHFDXVH
they also wore green tops
7KHFRPELQDWLRQRIWKLVWUDGHDQG
politics doesn’t really seem to marry DQGLWZDVREYLRXVJUHHQ
was my colour. No no,
KDUPRQLRXVO\KRZHYHUDWDXQLversity student studying Politics and it was widely appreciated
,QWHUQDWLRQDO5HODWLRQVLWVHHPVWREH that James’ is the
premium shoe repairers
working. This little tale starts with a
watch course with MBHI Peter Ta
ales, LQ/RQGRQDQGLWZRXOGEH
ZHOODFWXDOO\LWGRHVQ¶WVWDUWKHUHEXW logical step up. Jammy Jak
I needed to get the tale, Ta
ales pun in. struck again and the James
It actually starts last summer in DerDer EURWKHUVWRRNDELJULVN
E\VKLUHDW*UHHQVIRRWZHDUZKHUH, (which I’m not entirely
was lucky enough to start a summer convinced has paid offff) and
comMREZRUNLQJIRUP\JRGIDWKHU+HUH, hired me around my university com
OHDUQWDQDSSUHFLDWLRQIRU¿QHVKRHV PLWPHQWV:LWKLQZHHNVRIEHLQJZLWK
repairs and the life changing skill of JSC (that’s how we like to refer to it
key cutting as well as a watch course RQWKH¿UPVWULQJVZHUHEHLQJDGGHG
I enjoyed dissecting a WRP\SUHYHUEDOERZE\PDVWHULQJ
with Mr. Tales.
al
a
watch and seeing what made it tick, engraving, shoe care, people skills
DV,EHFDPHDOLWWOHPRUHFRQ¿GHQW etc. As well as the London way of if
with watches I thought, now this is a the price isn’t a ‘pony’ it’s a ‘score’,
skill, which is going to get the ladies. which means it’s a deal, a steal, a
sale of the century. And if you can’t
,QKLQGVLJKWWKLVPD\KDYHEHHQLOlogical. But the summer came to an see value here today you’re not
shopend and I needed to return to London here shopping you’re here shop
lifting.
WRGHEWP\VHOIDQRWKHUJUDQGLQ
FREEOHUVEDWWOLQJQRWRQO\P\SROLWLFDO
assignments like is ‘torture ever
MXVWL¿HG"¶%XWWKHJHQHUDOSXEOLFDQG
the real question of would these
VKRHVEHEHVW
served with a
stick on sole
and heel comER",¶PFRQWLQX
ing to learn new
things and I am
LQFUHGLEO\JUDWHI
ul to my godfather
who got me into
it and even more
so to James Shoe
Care (the people
who do care) for
giving me a chance especially the
team at Shep’s Bush which make
HYHU\ZHOOPRVWGD\VYHU\HQMR\DEOH
I’m not denying politics and shoe care
LVQ¶WDQLFKHPDUNHWEXW,¶PKDYLQJ
fun.
Jak Abrahams
On the edge... The cutting edge
Wish You Were Here...
TROPHEX 2015 – A REWARDING
EVENT FOR GLENWAY
I suppose I always look at
Trophex from a supplier’s point
view but hey, that’s the bit I
always see.
Trophex is now an incredibly well
established exhibition for the trophy
and related trades. To the best of my
knowledge it’s been going well over
25 years.
In the early days it was split into two
shows, north andsouth. North being
the Motorcycle Museum and south,
if my memory serves me correctly,
Sandown Park race course. Which is
now more famous in the trade of
course as the venue for the Cutting
Edge National Exhibition (September
19 th this year – don’t miss it !!)
However, since 2001 the show has
been well and truly parked in the
Pavilion at the NEC, and importantly
the date has stayed (within a few
days) the same, the third Sunday &
Monday of January.
Originally back in 2001 it was a three
day show. Five years ago it was
trimmed down to two days without
making a difference to the visitor
numbers. It just made life easier for
the exhibitors.
So how was Trophex 2001
different to Trophex 2015 ?
So many things have changed. In
2001 it was very much a trophy &
engraving show. Most of the trophy
wholesalers were there and a couple
of engraving machine companies and
possibly a sublimation company. The
style of trophies was very different ,
but they all took an engraving plate.
Pretty much all the exhibitors were
from the UK, pretty
much all the
customers were from
the UK too and were
very much trophy
shop oriented. It was
a case of go to the
show meet the
supplier, have your
lunch &and go home.
At this time I would
imagine the
attendance would be
half what we see
today.
machines, glassware, sublimation
machines, T shirt printers, to name
but a few. There are also companies
that are well known to the shoe
repair trade, who amongst other
things sell key cutting machines.
The visitor profile has also changed.
Now they come from all over the
globe to see what the UK trophy &
awards industry can offer. We now
have shoe repairers, engravers, kit
suppliers, sign companies, school
suppliers, and even multi-national
companies. And the numbers of
people attending must have at least
doubled.
The show itself, has evolved with
education areas where the
customers can brush up on social
media & Corel draw. An awards area
to vote for your favourite suppliers,
as well as plenty of catering facilities.
So was trophex 2015 a hit ? As a
supplier, it was great. It did
everything expected of a show,
meeting lots of existing customers ,
and introducing ourselves to many
potential ones.
As for the visitors, from the reaction I
got , they were very happy that they
made the effort to come.
But of course no matter how
good Trophex is, there is no show
better for the shoe repairer than
the Cutting Edge Exhibition. So I
hope I’ll see you at Edinburgh on
March 29 th and in September at
The Cutting Edge National
Exhibition in September !
Tim Wilford ,
Glenway Products Ltd
Let’s fast forward to
2015. The show has
evolved so much.
There are many more
exhibitors, from more
areas of the trade,
and more countries.
There are plaque
manufacturers from
the USA, there are
trophy companies
from Poland. There
are companies
selling printing
28
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COMPANY PROFILE + COMPANY PROFILE + COMPANY PROFILE + COMPANY PROFILE
COMPANY PROFILE + COMPANY PROFILE + COMPANY PROFILE + COMPANY PROFILE
GRS Footwear (George Rye
& Sons Ltd) is fairly unique
in that the Company can
trace its history back to
1880, when George Smart
Rye founded the original
company. Having arrived from
Northampton in 1879 which
was then the traditional heart of
the UK shoe manufacturing industry, George opened
an upper manufacturing operation in the heart of
Newcastle upon Tyne at 45 Groat Market in
conjunction with local shoe maker George Clarke.
Where it all started in the heart of Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Today's purpose-built distribution centre in Cramlington, Northumberland
Warehouse expansion is planned for 2015
Benchm
ark catalo
Best Foot Forward for
to the original,
giving the
Company the
address of 41 - 45
Groat Market when
it opened in 1928.
The business was
quickly a success
supplying the
hundreds of shoe
makers and
repairers that were
in the region at that
time.
By all accounts,
George was quite a
character and he
quickly became one
of the best known
business
personalities in the City.
Whether this is down to his business
acumen, or his love of meeting
travelling salesmen and business
colleagues in the bar next door is
open to debate !
In 1900, George
Edward Rye joined
the business with his
father and expanded
the product range and
customer base.
Although called into
the Army during the
1914-1918 Great
War, he managed to
survive and get back
into the business
in 1918.
George Edward Rye
At this point the emergence of large
scale shoe production factories in
Leicester and Kettering were hitting
smaller production units like those at
the Company, so George Edward Rye
decided that the future lay in the
wholesaling of leather & grindery
materials. This proved to be the right
decision and led to rapid growth of
the business. To cope, the Company
purchased two buildings next door
30
He was a founder
member of the
‘Northern Counties
Leather & Grindery
Merchants
Association’ and held
most of its honorary
offices until he died in
1962.
HARSH TIMES
George Edward Rye was succeeded
by his son Edward Rye who joined
the business in 1924 and worked at
the Company up until a
few years before his
passing away in 1992.
Edward managed to steer
the Company through the
disastrous year of 1963
when over 1/3 of the
company’s customers
were forced to close. A
combination of one of the
harshest winters on
record, plus the huge
popularity of the
fashionable and then
almost un-repairable ‘crepe’ sole,
closed hundreds of shoe repairers
across the UK.
The Company passed through the
family and still remains in the
ownership of the Rye family, making
its’ way through five generations and
surviving two World Wars, where
staff and family members were
called into serving their country,
through the years of rationing,
material shortages and several
economic depressions.
TIME FOR EXPANSION
In 1964, the current M.D. Michael
Rye joined the business and soon
began wholesaling footwear as well
as materials - originally sourced from
UK, then European factories, and so
the biggest expansion period in the
history of the company began.
This side of the business grew
quickly and in 1983, the Company
moved to a much bigger industrial
unit in the city away from the 5 floor
warehouse in the Groat Market
which was becoming too difficult to
work in. The original premises were
then converted into a retail business.
In 1992, Martin Rye, the fifth
generation of the family joined the
business.
The business remained in the
‘Shieldfield’ location on the city
outskirts until 2008, when the
continued development of the
footwear side led to another move
into a purpose built distribution
centre in Cramlington,
Northumberland.
LUNAR GROWTH
True to their original roots, GRS
continue to supply the repair
trade with some of the
same products that were
supplied in 1880, but the
real strength of the
Company now comes from
the distribution of footwear.
The Company supplies the
following brands:
Lunar – Born in 1990, Lunar
Shoes set out with the aim
of creating something new, colourful
and elegant at prices that were
within the reach of most British
Women. The design team began by
selecting materials and trims that
had previously only been used in
other areas of fashion and applied
them to footwear. The result was an
exciting range of classic footwear
with a designer twist that became
an instant hit in department stores &
footwear boutiques across the UK.
Since those early days the Lunar
brand has grown and developed to
encompass different footwear
categories including boots, comfort
lines and even funky wellingtons,
meaning that each season the team
now has the task of creating over
300 new designs - some in up to
seven colours!
Nearly 25 years on the brand has
gone from strength to strength and
can be found in stores across Europe
and now even as far away as
Australia. The buying, design and QC
teams now work in tandem but are
still true to the original aims of
creating unique seasonal designs,
incorporating the best trims and
embellishments in the latest fashion
colours – all created using the best
available materials at an affordable
price. As you can imagine, that is
not an easy job and that is why we
say: ‘Love Shoes, Love Lunar.’
GETTING A GRIP
Grisport - GRS
distribute this
comprehensive range
of walking boots,
comfort shoes and
safety boots from
one of Italy’s biggest producers of
footwear. Producing almost 20,000
pairs of shoes per day, with a
workforce of over 2,000 at the foot
of the Dolomite Mountains, Grisport
have one of the most advanced
production facilities in the world.
Powered by over 15,000m2 of solar
panels and producing some of the
most technical footwear made, GRS
are one of the brands biggest
distributors in the world.
Benchmark –
As one of the original
members of the
‘Benchmark’ group &
with over 130 years
experience in the industry, GRS
supply hundreds of shoe repairers in
the UK with everything they need to
repair footwear and leather goods.
The GRS design team constantly
design, create and manufacture new
products and materials for the repair
trade. With huge stock levels and a
separate team dedicated to the
repair trade, GRS are one of the
most advanced and comprehensive
suppliers in the industry. Delivery in
24 hours is standard and catalogues
are available on request.
Goodyear – Given that tyres and
shoes share a common need for
grip, traction, performance &
durability, it’s no surprise that
Goodyear has been making a mark in
the footwear business since 1901.
The rugged durable qualities at the
centre of the Goodyear ethos have
been married seamlessly with both
timeless and directional style in the
latest footwear collections by GRS
footwear. GRS also design,
manufacture and distribute all
Goodyear branded
repair products to the
UK shoe repair &
manufacturing trade.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
gues are
available
on reque
st
Store Concessions – GRS continue
to open ‘Lunar’ branded concessions
in selected department stores in the
UK. These concessions give a shop
window for the brand and increase
exposure in key city locations in the
UK. Run centrally from Head Office,
under the wing of their concession
manager GRS are looking to expand
from the current 15 locations in
2015.
Warehouse Expansion - This April,
GRS will start the expansion of Lunar
House adding over 1/3 of new
warehousing space and create new
loading and unloading bays. This
increased capacity will
allow even greater
stock holding for all
of our brands.
Chinese Office – The GRS sourcing
and QC office continues to expand
with a larger showroom planned
for 2015 and extra QC
inspectors in the field. The
Chinese staff, all employed by
GRS play an integral role in
helping the Company control
its supply chain and
source new and
exciting new
products in all
fields.
Stock Integrated Website – In
February 2015, the new GRS
website was launched that allows
customers to place their orders and
check their account balances online.
The website is fully linked to live
stock levels, allowing customers to
check what goods are available.
With tens of thousands of product
lines and special offers, this service
will revolutionise how some
customers will place their orders.
www.grs-footwear.co.uk
31
...how I wonder what you are –
The last three issues covered general
bonding hints, as well as several
natural and synthetic soling
materials: leather, rubber, TR, and
PU. Most shoe soles fall into these
four categories – which is a good
thing, since once you know how to
handle them, they are not that
difficult to bond! But of course our
good friends the shoe designers did
not stop there: if there are materials
that make manufacturing the shoe
cheaper, or make a repair harder, you
can trust these guys to use them –
as if they were trying to annoy shoe
repairers on purpose. Even if that is
not the case in most instances (we
hope): Why should a shoe
manufacturer worry about shoe
repair? Fixing a shoe only prevents
him from selling more new shoes!
PVC/Vinyl – From window
frames to shoe soles and boots
What is the difference between a
plastic window frame and a shoe
sole? Both can be made from PVC or
Vinyl – ok, the full name is
Polyvinylchloride, but let’s stick with
the short version, shall we? PVC can
be hard and stiff like a brick, or soft
and flexible. The latter properties
would be required in a shoe sole,
obviously, or in other items like
wellington boots – these are often
made from PVC as well, although the
Duke of Wellington probably never
wore that particular variant! And that
is where the trouble starts: the
chemical that makes the hard PVC
soft and flexible is called a
plasticiser, which is just a fancy way
of saying “makes hard stuff
deformable”. Unfortunately, it also
works on Neoprene – so if you bond
PVC with a standard Neoprene glue,
the adhesive layer will soften up over
time and the bond will fail. How do
you prevent that? By using an
adhesive that is resistant, or by
making it resistant with an additive.
The former can be achieved by using
either a PU-based adhesive like
Syntic-TOTAL (called Plastics
adhesive for that very reason) or a
chemically modified Neoprene
adhesive (Universal adhesive) like
Colle de Cologne or MULTI-Colle. The
latter method consists of mixing the
adhesive with a crosslinker, which
then reacts with the glue to form a
chemical bond that resists the
plasticiser. It is fairly easy to
recognise PVC: Just sand the sole,
and you will notice that the material
gets very hot and melts, with the
sanded-off bits curling up into gooey
chunks of molten plastic. When you
sand so long that it starts smelling
like Chlorine, that is an even stronger
Material Identification, the key to reliable bonding
(part four)
confirmation – but breathing
that stuff is not very healthy.
TPU – Or how to make PU
even worse
Thermoplastic Polyurethane
This can be encountered in
two forms: as the outer shell
of a PU foam sole, or as a
compact material for soling. TPU
wears pretty well as an outsole, and
it is sturdy enough to compensate
for using even cheaper and less
stable PU foam on the inside – a
great idea that probably got the shoe
designer a nice bonus, and that
makes your work more difficult. TPU
often looks similar to rubber or TR
from the outside, although the shoes
containing it are often much lighter
compared to those with a rubber or
TR sole (because of the foam inside).
TPU produces dust or melts a bit
when sanded, although it does not
become as hot as PVC. If there is
open-cell foam inside the sole, and a
thick and sturdy outer skin around it,
you are most likely dealing with TPU.
The main worry here is the foam: it
is often even less durable than in a
regular PU sole, so the Primer for
PUR becomes even more important.
Reinforce the foam, and then bond
with a Universal adhesive. Another
option is using a Plastics adhesive.
Compact
soling material made
from TPU is usually flat and
relatively thin, and may show
injection moulding marks when still
new. On a worn shoe, you basically
recognize this version by making sure
it is neither rubber nor TR nor PVC –
by testing it according to what you
have learned here so far! Here, you
need to make sure the adhesive
sticks to the surface – sand and
clean the material if necessary, and
then a Plastics adhesive like SynticTOTAL will do fine. In most cases you
can also work with a Universal
adhesive like Colle de
Cologne/MULTI-Colle.
Stay tuned for the next part in
the upcoming issue of Cutting
Edge: how to identify and handle
Natural rubber and EVA!
Dr. Rainer Buchholz, Renia
Adhesives Cologne
I have a dream ...
safer products, easier to use, without Toluene and MEK, always fresh off the line . . .
Renia has the solution ...
the True All-Purpose Cements
controlled by Chemists
state of the art
produced by professionals
any
erm
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in
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a
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Renia GmbH . Cologne - Germany · Phone: ++49-221-630799-0
www.renia.com · [email protected]
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BONDING IS OUR CHALLENGE
32
accept only the best
you can get !
Available through all wholesalers!
@
33
SISERVE – GOING
THE EXTRA MILE
Please take time to visit us and the
other exhibitors showing we care
about you and your business.
... BUT SOMETIMES
JOURNEYS GO WRONG!
All of us at Siserve are looking
forward to the Edinburgh exhibition
once again - a venue and a city both
worth visiting. Our previous
exhibitions there have proven that
there is a good demand for shoe
repair machinery and just how
appreciative our customers in
Scotland and beyond are of the extra
effort we and the other exhibitors
make to attend. You will be able to
see the latest new HARDO finisher
and some of the accessories we sell,
we will also be available to discuss
any service requirements you may
have and all our advice is free!
34
The Siserve team recently had a trip
to Ireland to deliver machines which
went well until the journey home.
Knowing we had to be up early the
day after we chose an early crossing
from Dublin Port to Holyhead.
The forecast the night before turned
out to be horrendous with severe
winds expected, but we didn’t worry
as the ferry is super with great
stabilisers. So we turned up in plenty
time to check in and found out the
ferry was stuck at Holyhead unable
to get out of the port.
Eventually (5 hours late) we got
going and the crossing was good,
until almost half way across. That is
when the Captain announced we
were turning around due to a
medical emergency and the fact the
weather was too bad for the rescue
helicopter to reach us, it would meet
us back in Dublin!
So we docked in the UK seven hours
late with a long journey ahead but as
it was mostly night time would be
OK... wouldn’t it?
Oh no. Nearly in Leicester, all the
traffic stops on the motorway and
police cars start to pass us. An
accident and another hour’s delay to
get to Leicester where I had to
collect my van and drive home.
Surely the fun was all over?
Nope. Going home a depressed fox
decides to end things and jumps in
front of my van smashing the grille.
All in all a 17 hour journey from
Dublin to home. Just 7 hours longer
than it should have been.
The things we do !
See you at Edinburgh... I hope !!
Peter Coulson
Siserve Ltd
35
SPRING CLEAN FOR SHOES...
Shoe Care is an all
year round
opportunity if you
stock the right
range, in the right
place, at the right
time. So make sure
you maximise
your accessory
sales this
Spring!
Spring is fast approaching and
it is time to get ready for
maximising those extra Shoe
Care sales.
With barbeque parties on the
horizon make sure your
customers ‘party Proof’ their
new summer shoes against
those accidental spillages of
soft drinks, beer and wine by
introducing Spray Protector
that invisibly shields against
these unwanted everyday
stains.
SOCKS AIN’T COOL...
Nobody likes to wear socks
in their summer trainers or
deck shoes.
SPRING IN YOUR STEP…..
Keep your lady customers smiling
whilst looking good in those high
heeled sandals and shoes by
providing comfort gel accessories
which are also ideal as fitting aids.
To capitalise on these high volume
products Cherry Blossom stock Ball
of Foot Gel Pads, Gel Heel Grips and
a really successful three quarter
length Gel Comfort Insole which
have all been very popular this year.
KEEPING YOUR WHITES
WHITE….
Barefoot is the ideal so
Cherry Blossom has a
comprehensive range of
deodorising and highly
absorbent range of summer
insoles together with a spray
shoe deodorant that are part
of the ‘cool collection’.
Summer would not be
Summer without those
classic white shoes. As
we all know these are
the most difficult to
keep clean so Cherry
Blossom has the
answer with several
options including Liquid
Sports Whitener,
Renovating Shoe Polish
Tin and Renovating
Shoe Cream Jar.
This range is the solution to
help combat foot odour and
keep feet dry which also
leads to prolonging the life of
the footwear through
reducing deterioration of the
insides of the shoe.
Why not create an allwhite shoe care feature
display to capitalise on
impulse purchases for
your customers buying
for new and old footwear
at home.
The sweet smell of a
successful range…
These products are mainly
bought on impulse so make
sure you have strong focal
displays of these sweet
smelling summer favourites.
IMELDA MARCOS
FOLLOWERS…
This ‘shoe driven breed’ of Ladies
will start to pack their winter
footwear away and bring out their
favourite brightly coloured shoes
and sandals to go with all those
summer outfits!
Chasing rainbows…
So make sure you boost your range
of colours in Shoe Care. Cherry
Blossom has a comprehensive
range of over 40 colours of highly
pigmented Renovating Shoe Cream
Jars that will
effectively
cover
scuffs and
also
nourish the
leather to
maintain
suppleness and
comfort.
GARDEN PARTY
PROTECTION….
Introducing Starlettos for Race
Days, Weddings & those
special Garden
Parties!
Avoid that
‘sinking into
the turf’
feeling……..
Starlettos are
clever shoe
accessories
designed to
stop Stiletto
heels sinking at
garden parties,
outdoor weddings
and race days. Not
only can sinking heels
cause damage to Ladies
shoes, they might cause
your customers to have their
day spoilt by an accident with a
glass of champagne or a fall at
the first post whilst chatting to
their friends!
STOCK WHAT YOUR CUSTOMERS WANT…
RIGHT RANGE, RIGHT PLACE, RIGHT TIME.
36
SPOTLIGHT
Submitted by Paul Lister, Cherry Blossom Premium
The editorial meeting was
almost over. Well the tea had
gone cold and someone had
eaten the last of the biscuits so
there wasn’t much else to talk
about really...
SoMSR's Laura Browne - ready for action !
An easy question first... what
was your favourite subject at
school and has it helped you
since you left?
websites, design adverts and all that
jazz for a very affordable price – and
do my own projects on the side,
such as launch a web comic. I’ve
drawn a few tattoos
for people before
so that might be
something I could
do. But y’know,
only if you can’t
be a professional
chocolate eater,
or a holiday
tester.
What do you consider
has been your best
achievement?
I set up a charity Taekwondo club at
an inner city primary school to help
build up confidence in children and
taught them how to stay safe in
certain situations like city centres or
on the bus. After starting the club,
the children said they enjoyed it so
much and the attendance rates on
the Taekwondo days grew over 50%.
... and your worst mistake?
and for goodness sake get those
brogues polished. I see you’re
sporting red laces though so at
least that’s a good start!” said the
Editor briskly.
Media. It definitely helps me on a
day-to-day basis, learning different
software to create any form of
media or marketing is exciting, when
someone asks you to build a
website, app or even a 3D model
ready for 3D printing – it’s all so
different.
... and what was your first
paid job?
“Why the interest in my
appearance Boss?” asked the
trusty reporter, busily checking his
pockets for that precious Hob Nob to
see him through until teatime with
Mrs F.
University of Leicester – Catering,
I worked there for 6 years and
loved it.
How and when did you become
involved in the shoe repair
trade?
It’s not the worst, but have you ever
had to give someone directions and
you realised you’ve sent them the
wrong way, but then you see that
person again, still lost in the city,
walking in a circle… and you just
cringe with awkwardness.
Where is your
favourite place?
Yes, unbelievably there is a Mrs F,
and four other now not so little Fs
despite over 30 years of riding a
motorbike every day.
Through Caroline at Shoe-String. She
is heavily involved with repairers and
has been for years, I work for her
company and got involved with
SOMSR that way.
As you are responsible for the
new look of ‘Services Today’ in
the magazine we’re sure readers
will be interested to know how
you yourself got interested in
graphic design and how did you
get to make it your job?
Forests. Bit weird,
but I like woodland
places. I’d love to
be left in a dense
forest, in a nice
wooden hut with
wifi, don’t forget
the wifi.
Do you have a
favourite piece
of music, film or
TV programme?
Favourite song is Cracks by Flux
Pavilion favourite film is Rush
(everyone should watch that, it’s the
greatest British film) TV programme
would be Embarrassing Bodies.
Oh and if you do want to impress
her, here’s some cash... treat her
to a Creme Egg! But make sure
you get a receipt !”
“Find something you love and work
out how to get paid for it, you’ll
never work a day in your life” – my
old graphic teachers mantra. What
really got into everything creative
was comic books. The old DC
universe was my first series, I used
to draw characters all day and then
take them onto the PC and digitally
colour them – sometimes I’d sell
my art online and sometimes
I’d get commission on
drawing requests.
How would you like
to earn a living if you
were not in the job you
are in at the moment?
So a few hours later after a slightly
melted chocolate treat it was down
to the interview...
Can you be a professional
chocolate eater? If not, I’d work
freelance and help people build
“Right Fairweather, get yourself
smartened up, brush off those
crumbs...
“You wouldn’t want to make a
bad impression the first time you
meet a young lady now would
you Fairweather?”
“A young lady?!” spluttered
Fairweather.
“Yes, but don’t go getting too
excited. She’s young enough to
be your daughter, maybe even
your granddaughter...” smiled the
Editor “... and anyway she’s
pretty good at Taekwondo so she
can certainly cope with an old
duffer like you!
Get yourself off down to Market
Harborough I want you to
interview Laura Browne, the
new young lady at SoMSR...
If you were to
get stuck in a
lift who would
you want in
there with you,
and
why?
Someone who can fix lifts.
Or Justin Beiber, I’d like to
question his life choices and
hopefully convince him to
stop making ‘music’.
If you were given £1000 to
spend on yourself what
would you do with it?
Put it towards buying an MR2 2L
Turbo. Maybe I’ll get myself a crème
egg on the way to the dealer.
What in your opinion is the best
thing a shoe repairer can do to
improve their business?
Join SOMSR of course! Other than
that, get online, get digital, are you
easy to find on google? Can your
customers call you and
leave a message? Is your
store welcoming? I’ve seen
businesses fail because
owners refuse to catch up
with modern ideals like
going digital or redecorating once in a while,
it makes a huge difference.
When you say “but that’s
how we’ve always done it”
that’s when you’re in
danger.
How do you see the
future for the Shoe Repair trade?
I see it becoming similar to fast-food
(not literally), customers are in and
out quickly, unfortunately, I think
with new business demands, some
repairers might find that they lose
the customer interaction side of
shoe-repair but it will grow vast in
terms of other services.
...and finally, rather than asking
the usual question of “how
would you like to be
remembered “(!) – what are your
ambitions for the future?
I’d like to build up my career in
design, work with small companies
and help them grow. Outside of that
I’d really like to get my 8th degree
black belt in Taekwondo, but we can
all dream...
37
SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST
The 700 Series Finishers
At Standard Engineering we make the
700 range of finishers – you can
hardly fail to have noticed from our
adverts and editorial over the years!
However, in the 120 years of the
company’s existence, this build
period represents a small part of our
history.
In fact Standard only began to build
the 700-range of finishers following
the takeover of Whitfield Wylie at the
start of the presentCentury. Standard
acquired the Whitfield production
facility in Kettering and it made sense
to carry on building the Whitfield
range of equipment
rather than getting everyone to start
over with the then Standard range of
Lynx Finishers, Tiger Presses, and, no
doubt, Ocelot Heat Lamps!
Who can remember the Standard
“Dove” finisher? The “Little Gem?”
The “Digbeth?” Or the Whitfield
“100”, “200”, “500”? Or “Europa?”
The major upshot of this decision was Or the “C92 – less-than-affectionally
to begin the gradual obsolescence of known as the “Fish and Chip”
machine? All gone. All obsolete.
the Lynx Tiger combination. Once a
Entire ranges of equipment that are
company is no longer geared up to
no longer supportable.
manufacture a particular model, the
number of parts stocked for those
They turn up on E-bay every now and
machines reduces over time. Within a again, and if punters buy them, get
year or two of the takeover, the new them going, and squeeze a few
Standard Engineering could not have additional years out of the kit, then
offered new Lynx / Tiger machinery if fair play to them. We usually know an
it wanted to. Although we have
ancient beast of a finisher has been
continued to carry some of the more put on Ebay as we will get a call
obvious consumable items for the
asking the cost of motors, buttons or
Lynx/Tiger range, we have now
bayonet fittings for a “Standard 2A
reached the stage where we would
Combination Finisher”, or a Whitfield
“Model H.”
be loathe to offer to recondition this
range either.
It’s not just our old kit which has
MOVING ON
been consigned to the history of shoe
Too many parts are no longer made or repairing. Numerous other companies
stocked for us to confidently offer a
have built shoe repair equipment over
fully reconditioned version, backed
the years and are either no longer
with our guarantee. Lynx/Tiger have
with us, or operating at a much
joined the dozens of makes/model
reduced capacity, supplying
combinations of shoe repair machinery refurbished units and spares only.
that are no longer built, reconditioned All of which brings us back to the 700
or particularly supported.
range of finishers. The original ones
are well over 30 years old, but
because the basic design has not
been changed too much the vast
majority of the components we use
on our current builds can be used on
older models.
This means a couple of things. Firstly,
if you have an old Model 700 in need
of parts or consumables you are in a
very fortunate position, because,
chance are, we’ll have them and be
able to supply from stock at a
reasonable cost.
THE STANDARD 730 FINISHER
SHOWS ITS VERSATILITY
In January 2015 Standard
installed a set of their equipment,
including the new 730 Finisher
into the newly built Footwear
Design Department at
Northampton University.
date repair equipment. After
consultation with Keith Malyon at
Standard the required equipment was
decided upon and put through the
company production facility and
installed shortly thereafter.
The University are further
diversifying their shoe
design and footwear
capacity and chose
Standard as their
partner to assist
with their
continuing efforts
as they shared
many of the
same ideas of
development and
innovation.
It also means that the 700 Finisher
retains a much greater sales or tradein value with us because it is a
tradeable commodity. We can fully
recondition them and offer back to
the market, content that they will be
supportable for the foreseeable
future, and this is reflected in the
prices we offer. That’s not something
you can say for the vast majority of
makes and models out there, whether
they are old stuff we made,
equipment from the Continent, or the
bargain-basement kit from even
further East.
Gary Lewis,
Standard Engineering
The University will
be instructing
students in a number of
disciplines which will be familiar
to every High Street Shoe Repairer,
and needed cost-effective, and up-to-
This machinery set-up is the latest
installation Standard have undertaken
to an education establishment. As
well as other equipment to
Northampton University, they have
supplied their kit to Huddersfield
University, Leicester DeMonfort
University and the London College of
Fashion amongst others. These
installations, along with numerous
sales to orthopaedic and hospital
locations of such machines as their
Ortho 100 and Ortho 75 Grinders
neatly dovetail with the company’s
more well-known support of the shoe
repair trade.
The Model 730 Finisher is available
from £8500.00 + VAT in 3-phase,
with a special offer of FREE delivery
within the mainland UK during Spring
/ Summer 2015.
The new Ortho 100 is available from
£5500.00 + VAT.
The Whitfield Wylie name has been consigned to history
710
THE
STANDARD
Finisher
Brand New
Hand Built in the UK
Available for
immediate delivery
Spring
Summer Offer:
Up to £2,000 trade-in
plus FREE mainland
UK delivery!
£10,250
from
+VAT
in 3-phase
Call Sales on 01536 517070 ext 3
www.standardgroup.co.uk
38
THE
NEW
730
Finisher
Brand New
Low Noise
Powerful Extraction
Hand built in the UK
Spring
Summer Offer:
FREE
mainland UK
delivery!
£8,500
from
+VAT
in 3-phase
Call Sales on 01536 517070 ext 3
www.standardgroup.co.uk
39
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF...
Paul Lister of Cherry Blossom
Before I start my “day in the life
of”, all I will say is that no
people were harmed during
Tuesday 3rd February 2015.
bunch of
people and a
Customer
Services
Team that is
always
there when
you need
them!
Without exception,
there are always certain
priorities that need to
be closed out during
the day to hit deadlines for our
Customers and this always adds to
the ‘buzz’ of working in our
business.
If I ever felt I was on top of
everything, I would get worried!
However, individuals that I interact
with during my working days seek
counselling on a regular basis.
Unusually, although travelling does
take up time, due to the wonders of
email and laptops you can catch up
on a lot of work whilst on the go
and in some ways you get more
done!
MORNING HAS BROKEN….
So being half an hour short of an
insomniac and sleeping with one
eye open, together with an early
flight booked, I plan to get up at
5.30am.
This plan is then scuppered, as for
some reason I am wide awake by
5.15am and decide to cancel the
alarm. Then the day starts with a
vengeance.
Like us all, I check my phone for
emails which have been sent
overnight….Booking.com is always
in there somewhere, quick check on
BBC News Updates, then I hit the
shower…..
I am spoilt by my long suffering
wife, Mandy, in that if she sees
something in the News that she
thinks I may have missed, she either
calls or sends me a link! I am not
worthy!
In the car, under the cover of
darkness, radio switched on,
Vanessa Feltz handing over to Chris
Evans, I start to mull over what I
want to achieve during the next 12
hours.
I have checklists on my checklists
and will have various projects on
the go with each member of the
Sales Team and the Board. I am
lucky that I work with a relentless
40
Initial meeting scheduled at my
hotel for lunch to meet up with a
longstanding distribution partner to
review business and prepare for the
first day of the Show which at this
point is tomorrow!
Having caught up with the office
and sales team via phone calls and
emails, I then go through our sales
report that comes through around
5.30pm to review daily activity.
Now having sited the day, I better
explain that this includes me
travelling to a Footwear Trade
Exhibition based in Germany.
Clearly this is not a typical day but
always guaranteed to be eventful!
Pick up hire car, fortunate to be
upgraded from a Focus to a
Volkswagen Sharan People Mover,
so set to become ‘man in a van’ for
three days.
EARLY AFTERNOON
Now I am in Birmingham
Airport….just failed security having
left Allen Keys in my ‘carry on’ bag,
but then being cleared because the
airport staff deem that I won’t be
able hold up a Plane with these
weapons of mass destruction.
I then hit Costa Coffee to book my
hire car on the phone… it takes 2
minutes. Brilliant!
Out comes the laptop to complete
some meeting preps for the next
three days, laced with emails before
take-off at 8.35am….
Having found my aisle seat I sneak a
few emails out before being
reprimanded by the air hostess to
switch my phone off!
Quick side track, a guy introduces
himself as Gary and he is travelling
to Turin to fix a furnace. He still
plays rugby at 55 years old and is a
hooker! His daughter plays for
Worcester Ladies Rugby Team who
is destined to be on the bench for
England….
End of side track….
Laptop out carrying on the good
work !!!
Come 7.00pm I’m invited to an
evening meal with one of or our
IT’S TIME
TO GET
‘APPY WITH
SILCA
New Silca APP
With the FREE new MySilca
App you can have the full
wealth of experience of the
world’s number 1 key and key
machine manufacturer at hand,
anytime, anywhere.
Available for iOs and Android this
new app is downloadable from
Google Play or App Store for free.
Features include:
Electronic Key Catalogue with
graphics and comparisons from the
largest key database in the world.
This catalogue even features the
Charles Birch hook number for easy
ordering from your local Birch
warehouse.
Vehicle Key Finder – Simply fill in
the make, model and year of
manufacturer of the vehicle and the
vehicle finder will not only tell you
which blank that you require but
also which transponder and how to
programme it.
Leaflets, brochures and video
tutorials on most Silca machines
and applications including the latest
Futura machine and the new AIR4
remotes.
distributor’s sales teams to catch
up, as has been the tradition for the
last three years.
Download
your FREE
SILCA APP
today.
No surprises, Schnitzel and Weiss
Beer are on the menu!
Back to the hotel room for a quick
review of the meetings for the next
day and hit the sack at 11.00pm
with one eye open and looking
forward to an exciting trip to the
Footwear Show.
Must remember Germany is one
hour ahead...
Thank you for reading.
Paul Lister
Cherry Blossom
Land in Germany after having a
bizarre Lufthansa breakfast...
Turkey and salami sandwich?
Paul (right) with
Gr
Edd Hames & Ge angers' fellow Sales Director
neral Manager,
Karolina Jones.
41
couple of cases quite spectacular
sales results.
Cutting remarks from the
YOU NEED TO DO IT
SOLE TRADER
BUZZING AROUND
I’m sat here writing, full of new
enthusiasm for my office- it is
clean, smart and tidy having been
repainted and feels ready to do
business. The transformation is
the result of the “wasp man”
hacking a large hole in the ceiling
to rid us of a big colony of wasps
in the roof space - the invaders
were just about to break through
and take over the inside too! The
hole needed to be repaired and
one thing led to another so the
whole room got a simple but
effective makeover. I hope my
enthusiasm lasts - I’m sure it will.
and re-invigorate staff. This in turn
will result in a better relationship with
customers and lead us to more sales.
AN OPPORTUNITY
While I was involved in my office
renovation I came across an article in
one of the Sundays, highlighting the
transformation of Leyton High Road in
Waltham Forest with a before and
after photograph. The result was
impressive, there had been a big
signage tidy up and the three storey
buildings had been painted in a
variety of modern pastels to give
individual identity and continuity.
Pavements and street furniture had
also been tidied and improved. The
shops had obviously joined in and the
most striking difference was the
newly styled shop fascias with in
most cases a repainted shop front
plus some refits too of course.
The result is a vibrant looking street
well worth a shopping visit.
A number of years ago Cutting Edge
provided several shoe repairers with
the opportunity to have a free new
shop fascia, via a competition. Most
of them took the opportunity to
repaint and in some cases even used
the occasion to rebrand the business
as a service centre. This “makeover”
always had a positive effect and in a
A new facia and a shop front repaint
could re invigorate your business too.
You would get more “stand-out” on
your street and you could take the
opportunity to highlight all the
services you provide or to re-address
the balance of the business. For
instance is your fascia that of a shoe
repairer who has added services and
is now actually doing more business
from engraving or key cutting and
locks? I’m not advocating throwing
the baby out with the bathwater but
stating the services you provide in a
clear and impactful way will surely
improve business.
could take the opportunity to use a
hanging sign, a great help in directing
customers to your shop.
Many sign companies are capable of
producing a good design. Make sure
that they take on board what you are
trying to achieve in projecting an
image that reflects your business
from a marketing point of view, it’s
not just about a name board it is
about communication with
customers.
Don’t forget that you may need to run
any alterations past your landlord or
agent and in some cases your local
planning office. In spite of their
reputation I have always found
planners reasonably helpful. Involve
them at the outset so that you don’t
start planning something that they
Have a look at your shop and consider will automatically have to turn down
what it might look like in a different
because of some local bylaw. This is
perhaps brighter colour, could you add essential if you are in a listed building
lighting to your facia? Perhaps you
or in or near a conservation area.
BEAUTIFUL ON THE INSIDE TOO
While you’re at it why not look at the
inside too. Can you improve the way
customers see it, is it clear to them
what you sell? Are your displays
attractive and clean? Can customers
browse products easily? At the very
least I bet it would benefit from a
good tidy up and clean- it is spring
after all.
This Spring issue of CuttingEdge is
themed on shoe care so it’s an
excellent time to have good look at
those shelves too. Have you got the
appropriate products for the time of
year? Don’t forget weddings, races
and outdoor events for dyes, heel
protectors and folding umbrellas.
It’s probably time to call your supplier
so that you are ready to give Spring
the buzz it deserves.
Soletrader
The same effect is often used by
companies when updating their
corporate identity. Done properly a
new company style can incorporate
new strategies and philosophies and
can provide a springboard to enthuse
Our new website has more product details for you to see !
Please visit
www.trlawman.co.uk
and come back to us for more details
A MUST FOR ALL KEY CUTTERS
DOWNLOAD TODAY
for instant access to the electronic
catalogue plus much more...
Free App downloadable on IOS
& Android (dead easy!).
Instant cross references from the
largest key database in the world
Includes Charles Birch hook
numbers
Vehicle key finder for key
blank,transponder &
programming information.
Tutorials on Air4 Remote,
Futura & much more
Contact your nearest wholesalers
or us at
Tel: 01933 355 807 Fax: 01933 419 947
Email: [email protected]
42
NEW
MySilca App
NOW
AVAILABLE
Click on the Remote Tutorial on the
MySilca App for more information.
For more information and assistance
call Linzi on the Silca Services helpline 0113 200 3926
43
WEB DIRECTORY
KEYS & KEY CUTTING
SHOE CARE
www.dunkelman.com
The DASCO website – full details of the
comprehensive range of shoe care
products for cleaning, protecting and
maintaining the appearance of footwear
and accessories, plus a wide selection of
insoles, laces, shoe trees and bootshapers
www.shoestringuk.co.uk
Full e-commerce online purchase of a
massive range of laces and a full range of
shoe care. Information on displays and
point of sale material too.
www.davenport-burgess.com
www.keyprint.co.uk
Davenport - Burgess are the UK’s leading
specialist suppliers key blanks (over
18million in stock !), keys, key cutting
equipment and locksmith’s tools plus a
wide range of locking devices.
We specialise in every aspect of our trade
and not only offer the best, most reliable
products with excellent support, but also
have a next day delivery service available.
Keyprint is a leading trade only supplier to
the UK’s lock and key cutting industry
with over 25 years experience. Over
9000 products in stock including leading
global brands such as Silca, Assa,
Schlage and Briton, as well as exclusive
brands of quality security products
2000+ Premier, Esla, WKS, Wendt and
Peterson Tools.
WHOLESALERS
www.algeos.com
Algeos (A. Algeo Ltd) is the UK’s leading
supplier to the orthopaedic, shoe making,
and footcare industries. Our product
portfolio totals over 7000 product lines and
includes several key European agencies for
high-technology footwear materials and
components.
www.charlesbirch.com
Full details of the product range covering
shoe care, machinery, keys, engraving,
watch straps and batteries plus monthly
special offers and a full range of Zippo
products to order on-line.
www.nwkeys.co.uk
www.sks.co.uk
Full range of keys, security products and
machinery. Order online with a unique add
to your order each day system. If it’s keys
online you want this site has them all.
Dedicated lock and key supplies site with
e-commerce on machines, accessories,
padlocks and specialised security and
locksmith products.
www.silca.biz
The SILCA website – for full information on
the latest electronic and mechanical Silca
machines. Log on and register to the Slica
Electronic Key Catalogue (EKC) to access
the largest range of key blanks in the world
and where you can even build your
personal catalogue. For more information
call Silca Services on 0113 200 3926
REPAIR MACHINERY
www.standardgroup.co.uk
www.leatherandgrindery.com
For all your Shoe Repair, Shoe care & Key
cutting needs plus fantastic monthly offers
the Leather & Grindery have it all. Our new
easy to use website is just a few clicks
away from saving you a bundle &
discovering all the latest products available.
Europe’s premier manufacturer of new shoe
repair machinery. We build bespoke new and
fully reconditioned equipment in the UK for
sale here and abroad. We offer nationwide
service cover, backed-up with the country’s
largest parts and consumables stores. Our
website features complete machinery
brochures, offers, tips and advice and is
regularly maintained and updated.
www.tcolledgeandson.com
With over 20,000 lines in stock and an easy
to use search facility, everything for the
modern shoe repairer is a click-away. As
well as offering a comprehensive range of
shoe repair materials, a full range of shoe
care products, key blanks, key machines,
leather goods, watch straps and batteries,
engravable products and gifts are available.
INDUSTRY ORGANISATIONS
SHOE REPAIR
www.vibram.com
Log on to the VIBRAM website and
discover the latest developments from this
dynamic forward thinking rubber company.
Register into the repairers’ section to see
the latest Vibram components which can
be ordered through Charles Birch.
44
www.somsr.com
www.shoerepairer.info
The new Society of Master Shoe Repairers
website is now online with details of how
you can join SOMSR and promote your
business.
Online community forum site for all
members of the trade. Not linked with any
trade body, manufacturer or supplier. Run by
Lee Ffrench on a voluntary basis to provide
for an exchange of ideas and thoughts.
45
BOB REALLY HAS GOT ‘SOLE’ !
Cutting Edge were pleased to
hear recently from Bob Mitchell,
who many of you will know from
his years at Davies Odell.
Apparently he’s doing well, still
going strong – and apparently his
running shoes are too thanks to a
visit he made to his old friends at
Vibram in Italy.
“It must have been the best part of
15 years since I had my running
shoes repaired by Barry Hazard of
George Robinson in Newark. I have
known Barry for over 40 years and he
was the chief tester of new materials
for Odell’s. In fact he first tested
‘Super Dark’ in the 1980’s.
I’LL BE AT THE BACK
He repaired my running shoes with
Vibram soles which I took back to
him and together with his lovely wife
Ann over dinner last October I
showed him how well they had
lasted. They had run an estimated
10,000 miles and whilst the pattern
only had worn away the uppers were
falling apart. Barry offered to repair
them for me and patching up the
uppers but I was too embarrassed to
accept.
I happened to be going on holiday to
Italy in December and complained to
Fabio Papini of Vibram that my soles
were worn out! He appreciated the
joke and took me to meet Edoardo
who like Barry is the chief tester and
sampling expert for Vibram. He
insisted on repairing with bright red
Vibram soles and laces to match.
Believe it or not the old soles put on
all those years ago by Barry came off
in one piece.
Here’s to another few thousand miles
miles - all thanks to both these
wonderful specialist shoe repairers.
Bob (on the right) shows his old shoes to Barry.
REQUIRE
TOP CLASS
STAFF
To work full or part-time in their prestigious London shops
Must have good experience in any of the following skills:
• Engraving
• Quality Shoe Repair
• Patching
• Key Cutting
• Zip Replacement
• Locksmithing
• Watch & Jewellery Repairs • Dry Cleaning
Good rates of pay plus bonus for the right applicants
Send your CV to [email protected] or
call 020 7476 2722 to arrange an interview.
TO SELL OR NOT TO SELL
THAT IS THE QUESTION!
Arnie trusts Woly to clean his cowboy boots above other brands
Arnie really takes a shine to Woly!
Arnold Schwarzenegger shows off his cowboy boot collection which he keeps
in excellent condition with the Woly shoe care range; maintaining the vintage
look without drying out the leather. You can see Arnie and read all about Woly
professional shoe care in ‘How to Care for Shoes’ by Nicola and Kim Himer or
stop by Shoe-String at the next Edinburgh Cutting Edge exhibition.
IT’S EASY TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIEDS.
JUST COMPLETE THIS FORM AND POST IT TO ARRIVE BEFORE
MAY 4TH 2015, FOR THE SUMMER 2015 ISSUE.
Name .............................................................................................................................
Address .........................................................................................................................
......................................................................................................................................
Day time Tel: .................................................................................................................
Please send your cheque, payable to Cutting Edge, with this order to:
Rachel Jarvis, Cutting Edge, Barking House, Farndon Road, Market Harborough LE16 9NP.
ONE
WORD
PER
BOX
£46.00 +VAT
(minimum fee)
£55.20 +VAT
£64.40 +VAT
£73.60 +VAT
£82.80 +VAT
46
Classified
SHOECARE WILL BE PLEASED
TO SPEAK TO ANYONE WHO IS
SELLING THEIR QUALITY SHOE
REPAIR BUSINESS
CALL RICHARD TAYLOR
07786 980397
ENGRAVING MACHINES WANTED
Manual & computerised machines complete or incomplete - by Gravograph,
Suregrave, Mastergrave,
Signature, U-Marq, Newing Hall,
Dahlgren, etc.
Please contact:
RONA MACHINES
tel: 01992 899 255
email: [email protected]
BUSINESS FOR SALE
Due to retirement a unique
opportunity to acquire a
freehold shoe repair and key
cutting business at a very
reasonable price.
Well established and situated
in central position on New
Romney High Street, offers
are invited in excess of
£30,000 to include freehold ,
good will, stock and fixtures
and fittings
E-Mail [email protected]
PLEASE MAKE A
NOTE OF THE
DEADLINE TO GET
ALL YOUR EDITORIAL
AND ARTWORK FOR
ADVERTISING TO US.
TH
MAY 4
THANK YOU!
47
NEW ‘PREMIER GRADE’
LEATHER SOLES –
Now available from Charles Birch
GREAT PRICES
TIGHT GRAIN IDEAL FOR STITCHING
FLESH FREE IDEAL FOR STICKING
SUPPLE BUT FIRM
FROM SEPICILER,
European Tannery
Of The Year 2013
Ask your Charles Birch Representative for more details,
Call Freephone Leeds 0800 591558 or Rochford 0800 585313.
www.charlesbirch.com