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@talkingmensshoes
It's Goodnight from me
It’s Goodnight from me
All great things come to an end, and then there are new beginnings.
Talking Men’s Shoes is saying farewell. I have thoroughly enjoyed sharing the love of shoes with you all. Thank you for your support. Thanks you for your support. It’s been a blast I am living my dream, of travelling around West Europe. I just never thought when I had that dream it would be with a husband, two dogs and a 20 year…
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Ice Rink Tested. Bangor Boots
Looking for large size boots to tackle the harshest winter weather? Take a look at the Columbia Bangor Omni-Heat, available from Walktall in sizes 12 and above. This great-looking boot was performance tested on a German ice rink and provides advanced traction on ice and snow.
On September 29th, 2017, the Bangor boot was tested at Zusammenarbeit Ice Rink near Bern in Germany. The event was dubbed…
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Walktall Spreading the joy of Nike Sneakers this Christmas
With some estimates claiming that Nike sell 25 pairs of trainers per second, 24 hours a day, it’s fair to say that Nike do sell a lot of trainers. In fact, some people are so desperate to get their hands on a pair that they’d even highjack a truck full of them.
This summer in the Los Angeles area, almost $1,000,000 dollars’ worth of trainers were stolen from a large Nike delivery vehicle in a…
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Brexit: attacks in Manchester and London: a hung parliament and a fragile Conservative minority government, kept in office by an agreement with the main pro-British party in Northern Ireland, the Democratic Unionists. These are some of the headlines for the UK in 2017 which have left some of us worrying about the impact on the UK economy.
Economic Situation in the UK for 2017 The office of National Statistics (ONS) report for August 2017; reveals an increase of 4.2% in prices across the entire retail market over the past 12 months. This is a reflection of wider inflationary pressures. The clothing and footwear industry figures are above the average price increase in the UK of 3.2%. Fortunately the increase in prices of shoes and clothes, is less than the 5% increase in fuel prices which we are paying when filing up our cars at the pumps.
With market woes and inflationary pressures, you could be forgiven in believing that the UK Footwear Market could have shrunk however;
there has been 3.4% average increase in quantities bought in the clothing and footwear sector. Which is great news for some British businesses.
Figure 1. Monthly volume and value growth in all retailing, chained volume measure, seasonally adjusted. Source ONS
What are the Drivers for this Growth? The Office of National Statistics (ONS) reflect that the key drivers for growth in Clothing and Footwear are: 1. An increase in internet sales 2. Sales promotions ending in August 3. Back to school shoe purchases
Which Larger Top Brand has Larger Sales? Top brand, handcrafted footwear in larger sizes is in greater demand, according to Walktall, the Europe wide online shoe retailer specialising in sizes 12 to 19.
Sales by Walktall of the Barker marque, increased by 54% last year. This longstanding UK-based brand continues to thrive, a success story for their internet sales. Significantly, customers who purchased Barker shoes from Walktall last year also favoured handcrafted boots by the Australian manufacturer RM Williams. This signals a demand for upmarket, handcrafted footwear.
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“This level of increase is highly significant for a niche retailer such as Walktall, which offers solely larger sizes,” says Director Jim Lockyer. “We now offer seven different styles of Barker shoes and seven styles of RM Williams boots. As a company, we really like to get behind these traditional brands, which continue to thrive by creating a handcrafted product of excellent quality.”
For more information on Walktall visit: www.walktall.co.uk
Large Brands ‘v’ Small Businesses Whilst is appears growth and confidence has not been adversely impacted within the UK, it feels early days to remain too optimistic about the future for all businesses within the British Footwear Sector. What is evident is the increase in raw material costs, is having an impact on retail prices. Conversely the drop in the value of the pound has made buying British products very attractive. This is superb if you are manufacturing shoes in the UK, or a large business that can absorb the increased cost of products whilst increase the marketing spend for the Internet channel.
On a personal note my small on-line mens shoe business has been negatively impacted by increased costs for my products. I am buying from Europe with a reduced pound. I have had to reduce my retail prices to attract sales, this has greatly reduced my margins in which to make a profit and ultimately what I pay myself rather than put capital back into the business. To balance the books, I have had to take a part time job (at a local bike shop which fills my heart with joy) in order to try to keep my business afloat. Whilst living the dream is great, the road to success is certainly not smooth or easy.
It is evident that for me (a small start-up business) to compete against the larger brands, I will have to: 1. Have an internet presence on a global scale 2. Presence in niche markets 3. Invest into skilled labour to market my business successfully 4. Create cash flow
All of which require skills I currently don’t posses, capital (when bank loans are few and far between), patience and determination.
The Future is….
The British footwear industry has a much respected heritage which I have explored in other blog posts. I am very proud to be part of this industry as an observer and a fledgling business. The brands such as Walktall and Clarks are proof that if you get the business model right, the growth is there. The UK Fashion and Footwear industry continues to grow despite adverse conditions because it is embracing Internet sales, reinvesting in skilled labour and responding to customers needs.
I would love to hear your views on what you feel are the drivers behind the continued UK Footwear market growth. Do you feel there is adequate support for small businesses in this market? Which footwear brand do you admire and why?
Thank you for reading the bloggings of a shoe enthusiast. #gallery-0-8 { margin: auto; } #gallery-0-8 .gallery-item { float: left; margin-top: 10px; text-align: center; width: 33%; } #gallery-0-8 img { border: 2px solid #cfcfcf; } #gallery-0-8 .gallery-caption { margin-left: 0; } /* see gallery_shortcode() in wp-includes/media.php */
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The ramblings of a shoe enthusiast. Me, Fiona Wyatt
Spread the love of shoes by sharing this article on Facebook, Linked in, Twitter, Instagram or email it to your boss, friend in the industry and sign up for my newsletter. The UK Footwear Market in 2017, what is the main Market Driver? Brexit: attacks in Manchester and London: a hung parliament and a fragile Conservative minority government, kept in office by an agreement with the main pro-British party in Northern Ireland, the Democratic Unionists.
Nothing beats Flip Flops and Sliders for the beach. No holiday wardrobe is complete without them.
To assist in making your choice for beach footwear, Walktall have given you an added inspiration of reducing their own brand down from £12.00 to £8.00. Here’s what they say about their Tide Flip Flop range:
Source: Walktall. Reduced from £12.00 to £8.00 Yellow Tide Flip Flops
excellent price. This traditional option has a soft rubber toe post designed for comfort as well as function. Tide’s vibrant colour sets off a tan beautifully, but is also kind to fairer skin tones.
Also available at walktall.co.uk are a wide range of Reef flip flops, including the high-end Fanning range, named after three-time world champ and pro surfing powerhouse Mick Fanning. The terrific styling, contoured, injection moulded EVA footbed and anatomical arch support make these a superlative choice. But these flip flops also conceal a hidden secret which is really tough to beat. They have a ‘church key’ built into the footbed so you can open your ‘soda’ after surfing. What an innovation!
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Source: Walktall: Reef Fanning Flip Flops
Source: Walktall: Reef Rover Flip Flops
Source: Walktall: Lacoste Flip Flops
If you’re a size 12+ you can shop The Reef flip flops and benefit from substantial reductions in Walktall’s mid-season sale alongside brands such as Lacoste, O’Neill, Columbia and Mustang. To view the entire size 12+ flip flops range visit walktall.co.uk
Time to Hit the Beach Nothing beats Flip Flops and Sliders for the beach. No holiday wardrobe is complete without them.
Source: Canadian Running Magazine
The human body is a miraculous machine that can take us to many places and enable us to do many things. If we’re tall, there are certain special considerations for taking the best possible care of our ‘machine’.
What happens to the joints of taller runners? Physics dictates that taller runners suffer greater impact stresses on their lower limb joints as they run. Pounding pavements can take its toll on hip joints, knees and ankles. If trail running is your bag, a supportive, well fitting shoe becomes even more imperative. Pounding uneven, off road terrain can also contribute to joint stresses and strains.
Whether you’re training for a Marathon, trail running or you simply enjoy a regular cardio fitness run in the park, it’s well worth taking care of your joints to keep you running well for decades to come.
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If you’re shoe size 12+, ASICS have provided a great choice in styles with inbuilt GEL shock absorbing technology. The GEL cushioning which is visible in the rear foot, gives you bounce and protection from impact. Other clever features are the FluidRide 2.0 which provides the ultimate combination of cushioning and bounce back properties and durability. The stretchable fabric at the bunion aims to cut the risk of blisters. ASICS use technology to inspire such as the “MY ASICS” training plan/ apps which aims to take your running to the next level.
Where can I buy larger sized sneakers? Walktall have stocked up on ASICS running shoes as the running season reaches fever pitch. Walktall offers free UK returns and exchanges on all unworn purchases. To check out all size 12+ ASICS styles visit www.walktall.co.uk.
Not sure how to clean your running shoes? Follow these 3 tips:
Source REUTERS/Jessica Rinaldi
1. Wash the sock-liner or insole separately. Change or wash the laces. 2. Remove surface dirt with a brush or toothbrush and wash clean with warm water and non abrasive soap 3. Dry your shoes naturally and don’t put them near/on a radiator. Stuff the shoe with newspaper
Spread the love of shoes, like, comment and share this blog post. Thanks for reading and a special shout out to Walktall for the copy, photos and inspiration for this blog.
Tall Runners Need Great Running Shoes The human body is a miraculous machine that can take us to many places and enable us to do many things.
Quiz: Guess the Celebrity from their Original Name
Quiz: Guess the Celebrity from their Original Name
This quiz is not as easy as it looks. Enjoy
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What would be your celebrity name? Step 1:Take your middle name Step 2: look out your window and describe the weather Step 3: Combine the two and there you have your celebrity name
Mine would be:
Siobhan Rain
What’s yours?
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Forget the Monday Blues with Sweet Music & Van Shoes
Forget the Monday Blues with Sweet Music & Van Shoes
No Monday blues here.
http://vans.tumblr.com/post/155814310349/take-the-long-way-home-in-the-vans-old-skool
Loving the Vans collection. Makes you want to get out and enjoy the great outdoors, whatever the weather. Click on the link above to view.
OR Do you fancy some #NewMusicMonday fun? Read on…..
If you can’t shake the blues, lose yourself with the new release from London Grammar “Rooting…
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Take the long way home in the Vans Old Skool.
No Monday blues here. Loving the Vans collection. Makes you want to get out and enjoy the great outdoors, whatever the weather
#Vans #Sneakers #TalkingMensShoes #TMSGents
5 pieces of Tech Equipment Required for Blogging
5 pieces of Tech Equipment Required for Blogging
In my first Vlog of 2017, I list the 5 pieces of tech equipment I use on a day to day basis as a blogger.
Sit back, grab a coffee and enjoy.
You can view more videos on my You Tube Channel Look for inspiration for men’s shoes on my Pinterest page Join the TMS fans on Facebook Tweet me on Twitter Get to know me on Instagram Subscribe…
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Christmas, what Will you Find Under the Tree?
Christmas, what Will you Find Under the Tree?
Five more days until the festive celebrations begin. Whilst some of you will be fortunate enough to get an Apple Watch or Sonos System, some of you will be getting …….SLIPPERS.
Homeys Slipper from Walktall. Available in sizes 12 upwards from £33
Yip, time to practice the fake smile and get online for boxing day sales to buy what you really wanted from Santas big sack.
Luckily, being a shoe blog…
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I must be doing something right because, I have been asked to write a review by another company. “Result” I hear you cry. Only this time the winner is my man because, the review is for Jacamo…..men’s online shopping retailer that offers a big range of sizes and styles.
As Steve is a triathlete and all round sports nutter, with long arms and a sporty, slim physique we thought we would test out the hoodies. This is the first of two reviews:
Part 1: NIKE SPORTSWEAR HOODIE, Navy £50.00 RRP (At time of posting) Here’s a link to make shopping that much easier: www.jacamo.co.uk Nike Sportswear Hoodie
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Review of the Nike Sweat Shirt Hoodie as sold in Jacamo
Long Arms on this Nike Hoodie provide warmth & Comfort
Hood and length in body are a great fit on tall men
Length in the body and arms this Hoodie gets a 10/10 The hood fits well: 10/10 The material is soft, comfortable and warm: 10/10
Overall the hoodie feels really nice and looks great, it’s a winner……RESULT!
Jacamo is a Winner – Men’s Hoodie Review I must be doing something right because, I have been asked to write a review by another company.
(via TOP TEN GENTLEMAN’S DRINKS). Love this article featuring the drinks for Gentlemen. It’s made me thirsty.....#DrinkResponsibly.
Finding out what it takes to be at your Peak Performance in business: 1. 100% on when your on. 100% off when you're off. I.e protect time every week to be you away from the business ( Mel Bound- @thismumruns ) 2. Make head space (Helena Hills, @truestartcoffee ) commit to other people (train with customers) - being accountable. 3. recognise your weaknesses as well as your strengths- Chris Bailey ( @disruptsports (at At-Bristol)
Vintage Americana Flair in Large Shoe Sizes
Vintage Americana Flair in Large Shoe Sizes
Original Penguin Legal 2 Leather Price £85.00
News on the Shoes is that Walktall has teamed up with Original Penguin. Now men can shop shoe sizes from 12 – 15.
Original Penguin is a US brand with its roots in the 1950s and 60s. Its distinctive styling makes it a popular choice for casual clothing with ‘vintage Americana’ flair. You…
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Iconic Air Max in Bristol
Iconic Air Max in Bristol
It was a great pleasure meeting Mustafa Abdullah and Ashram Hassan outside Selfridges in Bristol, Cabot Circus.
The most handsome Mustafa Abdullah and Ashraf Hassan for Street Style Talking Men’s Shoes in Bristol cabot Circus
These two make laid back style look easy. They are both in Nike Sneakers which they bought around a year ago. Mustafa is looking for black smart shoes for their friends…
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3 Ways to Update Your AW16 Wardrobe - Tips on Men's Shoes
3 Ways to Update Your AW16 Wardrobe – Tips on Men’s Shoes
Short video created on the streets of Bristol about how to update our wardrobe. Follow the three tips on Men’s Shoes, and update your Autumn Winter wardrobe.
For the love of shoes, share this post on Facebook, Twitter, You Tube and any which way you can.
Thanks for watching
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