Johnsons Shoes Company enters administration
Johnsons Shoes Company, the owner of the Johnsons Shoes and Bowleys Fine Shoes retail brands, has entered administration after struggling against online competition and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
Established 50 years ago, the family-run company sells high-end shoes for men, women and children from 12 stores in Windsor, Newbury, Staines, Teddington, East Sheen, New Malden, Twickenham, Walton-on-Thames, Northwood, Richmond, Beaconsfield and Farnham.
Ian Defty and Richard Toone from insolvency and restructuring firm CVR Global have been appointed as administrators.
Defty said: “Due to the coronavirus pandemic and lockdown Johnsons Shoe Company lost its ability to continue trading, and it was the final nail in the coffin for a business that was already struggling before the pandemic struck, like many other retailers.
“The business has traded strongly for many years, but last year was particularly difficult for them as they battled with rising rent and business rates, combined with the increasing competition from online shopping.”
The administrators are keeping all of the company’s 145 staff furloughed while they actively seek a buyer for the business.
Defty added: “The business’s products have mass family appeal, and if it can attract a buyer who can help it to adapt and trade, possibly via online channels, then it has a strong chance of continuing the strong legacy it has built up over the decades.”
