Family-run retailer reopens Stockport shoe shop

Family-run shoe shop, Meeks Shoes, has reopened its Stockport store following a funding boost from the Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme (CBILS).

Meeks Shoes has used the £150,000 CBILS financing to cover shop rent, staff salaries, supplier invoices and invest in online presence during lockdown. Online sales increased by 200% during the store closure.

Established in 1901 by Edward Meeks, the retailer now has five stores across Lancashire and Cheshire, now owned and operated by the founders great-grandson John Meeks. Following the reopening of the Stockport shop, plans are being put in place to reopen the shoe retailers other locations. John Meeks said:

Even before the pandemic the retail industry had been grappling with rising rents and increased online competition.

“So, we’ve used the lockdown period as an opportunity to update our website and our online takings there have trebled during this time, which has helped while our physical stores have been closed.

“While Stockport is the first to open doors post-lockdown, we’re looking forward to welcoming customers in four other high street locations over the next few weeks.

“While we expect the next 12 months to be tough, we’ve adjusted to all the social distancing measures necessary so stores remain safe for customers.”

As part of its reopening plans, all staff in the Stockport shoe shop are now wearing PPE and has put hygiene measures in place to allow customers to continue to try on footwear ahead of the ‘Back to School’ season.

Meeks Shoes were able to access CBILS financing through Barclays Business Banking. John Darkes, Relationship Director, South Manchester, at Barclays Business Banking, commented:

Family businesses like Edward Meeks are institutions and it is essential that we support them in whatever way we can during these uncertain times. John had to close his shops three months ago and subsequently spoke to us about the possibility of getting a CBIL.

“I’m pleased that we have been able to support the Edward Meeks business during this challenging situation and am certain that they will be stronger as a business once stores are re-opened and we all come out on the other side of this.”