FAMILY footwear firm Charles Clinkard has won a national award at the industry’s annual event to recognise the best of the best.
Charles Clinkard, which has stores across the UK, and its headquarters in Middlesbrough, was named Multiple Footwear Retailer of the Year at the Drapers Awards held at London’s Grosvenor House.
The win is a huge accolade for the company which beat off competition from finalists including Clarks. Schuh, Dune and Kurt Geiger.
The judges said Charles Clinkard, was a “reliable, stable business with happy staff”.
They praised its great understanding of the market, adding that it “consistently delivers growth in a tough climate with excellent customer care”.
Managing Director Charles Clinkard, who attended the ceremony said: “It means a great deal to be recognised in this way by our industry peers especially against such esteemed competition.
“As everyone knows it is a tough market in the High Street, but Drapers rightly picked out the two main ingredients that make for business success – happy staff and excellent customer service.
“It is not a cliché to say that this award is for every member of the Charles Clinkard staff across all of our 34 retail locations.”
The award also praised the firm’s investment in growth and updating its website; its wide brand offering and outstanding customer reviews.
Drapers is known as the ‘bible’ of the fashion industry and the awards were hosted by stand-up comedian Tom Allen – known for his sartorial elegance.