‘We Hope It’s Not the End’: Firm Behind Prince George’s Baby Shoes Warns It May Close
The firm that created the iconic baby shoes worn by Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis is facing potential closure. Paul Bolton, owner of the Leicester-based company, has expressed serious concerns about the future of Early Days and Baypod shoes, as they struggle with a drastic decline in customer demand and rising business costs.
Challenges Facing the Baby Shoe Firm
– Decline in Sales: Despite a surge in sales after royal endorsements, the 73-year-old family business is nearing collapse. Bolton cites ongoing economic challenges that have severely impacted their operations.
– Financial Strain: Bolton announced the likelihood of winding down the company due to skyrocketing overhead costs, including energy prices and raw materials, compounded by rising minimum wage and National Insurance Contributions.
– Market Changes: Following a remarkable year in 2022, where their turnover doubled due to royal publicity, Bolton has noted a significant drop in orders from retailers. Many former customers have cited tough conditions in high street shopping.
Company History and Impact
– Legacy: Founded over 70 years ago by Bolton’s father and uncle from their parents’ home, the company thrived on its reputation for quality baby shoes.
– Royal Connection: Bolton reminisced about a marvellous period after Prince George was photographed wearing the shoes during a tour of Australasia. This single event resulted in stock shortages and a need for overtime in production.
– Current Scale: Once employing over 100 individuals and producing more than 10,000 pairs of shoes weekly, the company has now dwindled to just 10 employees. Bolton and his brother have invested their personal savings to sustain the business but find it increasingly unsustainable.
Hope for the Future
Bolton remains cautious yet hopeful. He mentioned, We hope it’s not the end, but I’d say it’s 80% likely it is. While they have received numerous inquiries, some are believed to be about relocating the business overseas—an option the Bolton brothers are not keen on pursuing.
Government Response
In response to these ongoing challenges, a government spokesperson noted, The Budget doubled down on our work to grow the economy and create good jobs, delivering stability, cutting borrowing, and reducing inflation.
The future of the company that brought baby shoes to the royal family hangs in the balance, and the hope remains that a buyer may emerge to preserve its legacy.