Hotter Shoes plans significant increase in UK-based production, targeting one million pairs annually under new ownership.
- WoolOvers, who acquired Hotter Shoes from administration, intends to reverse the planned reduction in UK manufacturing.
- Current domestic production represents 25% of sales; plan aims to increase this to 75%, benefiting from increased control and quality.
- CEO Mike Lester highlights the consumer preference for UK-manufactured, comfort-fit shoes over imports from India.
- The strategic shift is expected to improve profitability and support job creation within the UK footwear industry.
WoolOvers, the new owner of Hotter Shoes, has announced plans to considerably increase the manufacturing output in the United Kingdom to one million pairs per year. This strategic decision is a part of their vision post-acquisition, aiming to revitalise domestic production capabilities and meet customer preferences more effectively.
Initially, Hotter Shoes had planned a gradual reduction of its manufacturing operations in Skelmersdale, Lancashire. However, this decision has been reversed under WoolOvers’ leadership, which has recognised the importance of retaining British manufacturing to cater to its consumer base. The ambition is to raise the proportion of UK-made shoes sold from the current 25% to 75%, thereby enhancing both quality control and market competitiveness.
Chief Executive Mike Lester of WoolOvers emphasised that the primary appeal of Hotter Shoes to its customers lies in their British-manufactured, comfort-focused products rather than the fashion-forward items imported from India. This preference stems from the broader fit and varied sizes of UK-produced footwear, which are better suited to the older demographic that forms a significant part of Hotter’s customer base.
Lester explained that the cost of producing footwear domestically is only marginally higher than sourcing from India. He posits that increasing production volumes domestically not only enhances profit margins but also aligns with consumer desires and strengthens the UK manufacturing narrative.
After being acquired in a £6.7 million pre-pack deal by WoolOvers last year, Hotter Shoes has reported a considerable recovery in sales, increasing to £50 million from £45 million. This rebound underscores the potential success of focusing on domestic production and customer centricity.
WoolOvers’ strategy to bolster UK production of Hotter Shoes appears promising, aligning with consumer preferences and supporting local industry growth.
