Start-Rite is proud to support independent shoe shops throughout the country who keep us present on the high-street. We trust these independent retailers, such as Brassington Bros, to represent our brand values as advocates of quality fitted footwear for children across their valued community. We’re excited to shine the ‘Retailer Spotlight’ on this Staffordshire-based business. We spoke to owner Peter Brassington, the fourth generation of Brassington to run the business.
Peter told us that the Brassington’s business was founded in 1901 by his great-grandfather, with two stores now operating out of the town centers of both Hanley and Longton (two of the six towns that amalgamated to make Stoke-on-Trent). The Hanley building used to be both a bakers and butchers at different periods as far back as the Georgian times, and the Longton store used to be a sweet shop that was run by two sisters. When in Hanley, you can find the local museum nearby that holds a series of exciting events, so there’s a great opportunity to make a day of getting your school shoes fitted.
Brassington’s has been stocking Start-Rite shoes for roughly 20 years. Peter found plenty of customers asking for the brand, to an extent where it was more than worth stocking the shoes and things took off from there. Asked about his favourite style in the collection, he said: “It would have to be ‘Strike’, the wear and tear of the school day puts different brands’ school shoes to the test, and ‘Strike’ cannot be beaten by the competition or the customer!”
Peter went on to tell us that he is very happy with how Start-Rite products perform in the shop as the quality reassures the business that they can sell the shoes with absolute confidence that shoes won’t be returned.
Peter expressed that Brassington has always tried its very best to deliver the quality of shoe that their customers deserve.
Staunchly defending a belief in good quality fitted footwear makes Brassington Bros a great ambassador for the Start-Rite brand, as we too encourage customers to buy smarter, look after their shoes and to ensure the healthy physical development of children.
Today, Brassington’s is composed of a team of individuals brimming with knowledge when it comes to shoe-fitting. Still headed by the Brassington family, the small team carries a wealth of knowledge, with some of the staff sporting 20 years of experience in fitting footwear. They are all qualified fitters and ensure a comprehensive service for your children’s shoe fitting.
Peter mentioned that his team is proudly well-trained to help service children with learning difficulties, particularly autism. It is not unusual for the store to open earlier or shut later in the day in order to open a quiet period up for customers that struggle with the over-stimulation of what can be a very busy shop during the back-to-school period!
Author: Vista, published 13-08-2024.