Hotter Shoes is set to significantly boost its UK manufacturing capabilities under new ownership. This move marks a stark reversal of previous plans to phase out UK production.
- New owner WoolOvers intends to increase UK-made shoes from 25% to 75% of Hotter’s total production.
- The decision stems from customer demand for comfort-fit, UK-manufactured shoes, contrasting with imported alternatives.
- Chief Executive Mike Lester highlights that production costs in the UK are only slightly higher than those in India.
- Boosting UK production supports local employment and improves profit margins by increasing factory volumes.
Hotter Shoes has announced plans to radically enhance its domestic production capabilities, aiming to produce one million pairs of shoes in the UK each year. This development comes in the wake of its acquisition by WoolOvers, who rescued the footwear retailer from administration in a £6.7 million pre-pack deal last year.
Under prior ownership, Hotter Shoes had intended to gradually cease manufacturing at its Skelmersdale, Lancashire factory. However, WoolOvers has now reversed this decision, focusing on strengthening local production. The shift will see three-quarters of Hotter’s shoes being manufactured in Britain, up from the current 25%, as reported by The Times.
WoolOvers’ Chief Executive, Mike Lester, explained that their analysis revealed a strong customer preference for Hotter’s UK-manufactured products, known for their comfort fit. These products better cater to the needs of older consumers compared to fashion-forward imports from India, which lacked the diverse range of fits and widths.
Lester further noted that the production cost difference between the UK and India is marginal. “If we can put more volume through [the factory] then that increases the [profit] margin. It is a win-win for us,” he stated. He emphasised the advantages of domestic production, including employment opportunities and quality control, aligning with consumer preferences and enhancing the brand’s UK story.
Since WoolOvers’ acquisition, Hotter Shoes has recovered financially, with sales rising from £45 million to £50 million within the first year. The retailer continues to operate across 30 UK locations, through online platforms, and catalogues, maintaining a robust presence in the market.
Hotter Shoes’ enhanced UK production strategy under WoolOvers aims to align with consumer demand while supporting local manufacturing.
