// Shoeaholics will open 6 pop-up stores across the UK after rise in online sales during lockdown
// The online footwear retailer is owned by Kurt Geiger
Shoeaholics will open its first stores on the UK’s high streets later this month after experiencing a surge in sales during the coronavirus lockdown.
The online footwear retailer, which is owned by footwear giant Kurt Geiger, was established in 2014.
One pop-up store has already launched in Cheshire Oaks, while five others will be launching in Birmingham, Swindon, Dalton Park, Silverburn, and London’s Oxford Street.
READ MORE: Kurt Geiger to quarantine shoes for 24hrs as it gradually reopens stores in June
Shoeaholics stocks brands including Aldo, Carvela, Steve Madden, Kurt Geiger, Birkenstock, Skechers, Fitflop, Hunter and Superga at between 30 per cent and 40 per cent lower than the recommended retail price.
The company said sales reached £20 million last year.
“We saw a clear trend during lockdown of consumers spending money they saved from not going out on their obsession with shoes,” Shoeaholics digital director Gareth Rees-John said.
“We have the largest online collection of designer shoes, covering 150 brands, and individual consumer spend was in many cases three times the norm,” he said.
“The recent increase in consumer spend, we know is down to our value proposition for branded shoes, which is unrivalled in the UK with discounts available between 30 per cent and 40 per cent.
“We want to build on this momentum and are doing this by opening six stores at a time when other retailers are leaving the high street.
“This is a confident move that reflects both the UK’s continued obsession with shoes, and consumers’ focus on value in these uncertain economic times.
“There is a gap in the market for a one-stop shop for shoes from more than 100 great brands, especially with the future of department stores at risk.
“We want to bring our expertise to the high street and provide a space where our customers can find their perfect shoe at the lowest price available.”
During lockdown, Shoeaholics reported selling on average 400 pairs of trainers – its bestselling category – a day, which is more than double the amount on the same period last year.
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