Footwear retailer celebrates centenary
NORTH East footwear retailer Charles Clinkard has launched a heritage campaign to mark its 100th anniversary.
The company was established by founders Charles and Eveline Clinkard with a single store in Middlesbrough, which started trading on this day in 1924 but has since grown to operate over 40 shops and concessions across the country, alongside a successful online store.
To mark the milestone the firm has created ‘A Lifetime of Memories’ campaign, offering customers and staff a chance to delve into its history. The project revisits key moments that have helped shape the last century and gives unique access to the family archive, bringing to life old photographs, brand ads, and other memorable moments that have been stored in shoeboxes over the years.
The firm is also rolling out a programme of celebrations for customers including a 100 Anniversary Collection, an exclusive discount period with 24% off for 24 hours for Your Rewards members, plus in-store activities.
The family-owned business, which has around 500 staff members, is also planning a number of charity fundraisers and initiatives across the year for organisations including Cancer Research UK, Age UK, Dementia UK, Teesside Hospice, St Teresa’s Darlington Hospice, Teesside Charity, St Oswald’s Hospice and the Headlight Project.
The centenary celebrations come as the business announces that overall sales increased by 7% in 2023 compared to the previous year.
Charles Clinkard, group MD and the grandson of the eponymous founder of the retailer, said: “This is a very exciting year for us as we celebrate 100 years of Charles Clinkard. My grandparents opened the very first store here in the North East back in 1924 and I’m so proud to celebrate their legacy and how far the business has come over the past century.
“The success of Charles Clinkard is very much down to the dedication of our staff, who truly strive to uphold our core family values. I believe this dedication is what makes our business so special and helps us continue to stand out for quality and service.
“From our staff, brands and loyal customers, to those who have engaged with us at any point over the past 100 years, this milestone is a chance to give back, say a big thank you to everyone within the community and look ahead to what the future holds, and we hope everyone will join us in the celebrations.”
Charles Clinkard, Tim Payne, managing director of retail, and Rachel Clinkard, head of ecommerce, will visit three North East stores including the Eldon Square shop in Newcastle, to host in-store events and celebrate with retail teams and customers.