Repairing shoes is now a booming business - and it's not just the down at heel who are going to the cobblers. Those who have splashed out on Jimmy Choo or Prada are making the most of their investments, and taking them in for repairs instead of buying new ones, according to David Taylor, manager of Cravens Shoe Repairs, in Manchester city centre. He says they are seeing increasing numbers of customers through the door. He has more than 20 years experience mending footwear, and says business is picking up.
To repair a standard heel and sole he charges £12.95 for women and £19.95 for gents. David claims his service can add years onto a shoe's life. "We're seeing people come in with all kinds of expensive brands such as Jimmy Choo and Prada," he said. "We wouldn't think twice about mending a pair that cost £500 and more.
"What we're trying to tell people is that there is no need to toss damaged shoes out and buy a new pair. Just bring them in here and we can fix them up for you."
David, 44, from Oldham, says he is repairing around 30 to 40 pairs a day. And he has also spotted a new trend as people search for cheaper alternatives than a trip to the fashion stores.
"A lot of women have started buying old shoes from Oxfam," he said. "Fashions come back in all the time and they spot a pair that could be quite trendy but need repairing.
"They bring them in here and it's job done." And it would appear as though David and colleague Stephen Jones are as good as their word.
I took along a pair of Italian boots I'd long given up on which were picking up dust in my closet. They were battered and bruised and it was only a matter of time until I took them to my local recycle bin.
The heel had vanished and the soles were littered with holes. But after David and his colleague Stephen Jones, 58, worked their magic they were as good as new and ready to grace the nightclubs of Oldham once more.
Cravens is at 88a Deansgate. 0161 834 9995.
mike.keegan@men-news.co.uk
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