In the charming seaside town of Sidmouth, White & Son Shoes stands as a beacon of tradition and quality in the footwear retail industry. Led by Steve and his wife Sarah, the family-owned business brings over 40 years of retail experience to its customers, offering an old-fashioned yet refreshing approach to shoe shopping.
A Journey Rooted in Passion and Experience
Steve, the owner and director of White & Son Shoes, shares his story of taking over the business from its previous owner, who retired. “We felt the time was right to actually get ourselves into the High Street,” he says, reflecting on the transition. With decades of experience working for global retail and wholesale companies, the couple’s passion for footwear retailing made the decision a natural step.
Their dedication to customer service is at the heart of the business. White & Son Shoes goes beyond just selling products—it focuses on fitting shoes “the old-fashioned way,” ensuring that each customer leaves with the right product for their needs. This commitment to quality and service has been met with an overwhelmingly positive response from both locals and tourists.
Embracing Technology Whilst Preserving Tradition
White & Son Shoes has found success by blending traditional values with modern tools. While their primary focus remains on delivering exceptional in-store experiences, Steve envisions embracing online opportunities in the future.
“In the short term, we want to build a database so that we can communicate with our customers in a much easier way,” Steve explains. By leveraging tools like Top to Toe EPOS, the business can engage more effectively with loyal customers, enhancing the overall shopping experience. The system’s ability to manage inventory and streamline operations has been instrumental in supporting their growth ambitions.
Advice for Aspiring Footwear Retailers
Steve’s journey offers valuable insights for those considering opening their own footwear shop. “Have the confidence to go out and do it,” he advises. “I’ve proven that you can do it. With the right confidence and mindset, anything is possible.” While challenges are inevitable, he emphasises the importance of staying focused on what you know best—a philosophy that has guided White & Son Shoes to success.
Looking Ahead
Over the next 5 to 10 years, Steve aims to continue growing the High Street shop and deepen connections with the local community. The business’s vision aligns perfectly with the capabilities of Top to Toe EPOS, which offers the tools needed to navigate the evolving retail landscape while staying true to their core values.
White & Son Shoes exemplifies how a small, family-run business can thrive by combining a commitment to customer service with smart technology solutions. Their story is a testament to the power of passion, expertise, and the right tools—a winning formula for any independent retailer.
Watch the Full Video
For more insights into Steve’s journey and the story behind White and Son Shoes, watch the full video at the top of this blog, and also his Top to Toe testimonial video found on our Testimonials page: (https://toptotoe.com/testimonials-and-case-studies/)
