SKEANIE answers retailers’ SOS calls!

SKEANIE, the manufacturer of hip and healthy shoes for children, approved by leading podiatrists around the world and the choice of a number of Hollywood’s celebrity Mums, including Nicole Kidman, has today announced a new “Sell or Swap” scheme for SKEANIE retailers in the UK & Ireland.

The new “Sell or Swap” scheme allows retailers to replace any products which they do not sell from SKEANIE’s  Spring / Summer season with the security that United Brand Management, SKEANIE’s European distributor, will replace with new products from the Autumn / Winter range for any products that the retailer does not sell. The “Sell or Swap” scheme provides retailers a unique, risk free purchasing opportunity.

Mel Hearn, SKEANIE Brand Manager explains, “Since our launch in Europe we have been delighted with the sell through rates that our retailers have experienced. We feel so confident that our family of retail partners will sell their SKEANIE shoes we will effectively replace any shoes that they do not sell at the end of the season with new shoes from our next collection – meaning that they are sure to retain their full margins and not have to discount.”

SKEANIE, who since their launch in Europe, have received critical acclaim have made a number of significant announcements this month with a number of senior appointments, including top podiatrist Tracy Byrne who has joined SKEANIE as a consultant.  Tracy will provide input to product development and is developing a series of training courses for retailers.

For further information on SKEANIE shoes please call 0161 374 0713

 

SKEANIE Making Big Footsteps with new team appointments

SKEANIE, the manufacturer of hip and healthy shoes for children, approved by leading podiatrists around the world, has today announced three new senior appointments. 

The children’s shoe brand of choice to mums around the globe, including Hollywood A Listers such as Nicole Kidman, is thrilled to have appointed a new Brand Manager, Public Relations Manager and Podiatrist Consultant to the team.

Mel Hearn joins as Brand Manager for Europe and will take on responsibility for all brand communications and product management.  Meanwhile, SKEANIE’s new PR Manager, Amy Clarke, will be the main point of contact for all media requests. Renowned podiatrist Tracy Byrne, joins as a consultant, and will work with the SKEANIE team in product development and raising awareness of the importance of soft sole shoes.

United Brand Management Director Nick Richardson comments, “We are delighted to welcome Mel, Amy and Tracy to the team. Since our launch last year SKEANIE has been extremely well received and has grown positively. I look forward to working with the growing team as we move the SKEANIE business to the next level.”

All SKEANIE shoes and boots are hand-crafted from high quality super soft eco-leather, designed to nurture and protect little feet. All products are Fair Trade. For further information  please visit www.skeanie.co.uk.

SKEANIE looking for Mums!

SKEANIE, the manufacturer of hip and healthy shoes for children is looking for brand ambassadors across the UK & Ireland.

Are you looking for an exciting, stimulating role that will fit around your family commitments? Would you like to earn commission whilst spending time with your children?

SKEANIE are looking for a number of regional ambassadors to join our growing team of SKEANIE Mums to undertake a variety of key sales and marketing activities in their local area.

Previous experience of selling into retail outlets would be preferred but is not essential. More important will be your personality, enthusiasm and willingness to get involved in a number of promotional activities, including direct sales (to retailers and at local events), social media, blogging, writing product reviews and networking.

Each SKEANIE Mums will represent SKEANIE in their local areas where they will be responsible for marketing and selling SKEANIE. There is no initial outlay, payment is commission based, mums can earn as much as they like, full sales and marketing support is provided and excellent training from one of the UK’s top podiatrists and the SKEANIE team will be provided to all SKEANIE Mums.

SKEANIE sails into SS12 with children’s boat shoe 

SKEANIE, the manufacturer of hip and healthy shoes for children, is making waves for Spring/Summer 2012 with its brand new junior boat shoe.

New to the UK and Europe, SKEANIE has already enjoyed great success in Australia, where it has become the preferred provider of the Australian Podiatry Association and has more than 100,000 happy customers. All SKEANIE shoes are handmade under fair trade conditions and are crafted from 100% super-soft buttery leather, allowing the child’s foot to breathe and develop naturally. 

SKEANIE’s innovative and critically-acclaimed approach to design prioritises the health aspect of children’s feet, with all SKEANIE shoes designed to have wider toe sections to provide extra room for movement when a child walks and an ultra-flexible rubber sole that is as close to being barefoot as possible, whilst ensuring protection for small feet as they begin to explore. Style is also paramount to SKEANIE, and its beautiful new junior boat shoe, available in navy or chocolate, brings maritime chic to little feet this summer. The design incorporates classic lace detailing around the heel and visible stitching across the toes, while a velcro strap ensures feet remain snug and well-protected. 

It is for these reasons that SKEANIE has become a firm favourite among foot specialists and one of the UK’s leading authorities, Consultant Podiatrist Tracy Byrne, says:
“As well as providing room for natural growth, SKEANIE’s soft soled shoes allow sensory feedback from the ground, which is especially important for little ones learning to walk and getting to know their surroundings.”

SKEANIE Brand Manager Mel Hearn says:
“We’re incredibly excited about launching our Spring/Summer 2012 collection in the UK and Europe. The junior boat shoes are perfect examples of the SKEANIE philosophy, which combines health, style, protection and super soft buttery leather that just oozes quality and comfort to provide ultra-snug and comfy footwear for youngsters and peace of mind for mums.”

SKEANIE previews SS12 Collection at Moda Footwear 2012:Brand Confident for NEC Show after making Giant Steps in Europe

Critically acclaimed children’s footwear brand SKEANIE is delighted to announce it will be exhibiting its Spring/Summer 2012 collection at the upcoming Moda Footwear show at Birmingham’s NEC in February, where visitors to SKEANIE’s Stand T38 will enjoy an exclusive preview of the SS12 range –its European premiere - while being treated to delicious homemade cakes. 

The brand recently launched to the consumer market in the UK and Europe, bringing with it a mission to create stylish, super-soft leather footwear that nurtures and protects small feet. SKEANIE has also received a lot of interest from the trade since exhibiting at Moda and Kind Jungen in 2011, with a buzz about the brand really gaining in momentum.

SKEANIE’s infant range includes soft suede soles that give grip for tiny feet as they are growing and exploring, while the junior collection incorporates innovative flexible rubber soles to provide unrestricted movement. These products will be showcased by SKEANIE on stand T38 during the Moda Footwear show on 19th-21st February 2012. 

Director Nick Richardson says:
“Moda was the first major trade show we attended in the UK last August, and we were delighted from the reaction we received and how well SKEANIE performed for the retailers who opened accounts with us at the show. We’re really excited about showcasing our new range and sharing the SKEANIE philosophy with the thousands of buyers who will be visiting the NEC for Moda Footwear in February.  We can’t wait to display our SS12 collection exclusively at Moda and share our exciting plans with existing and new members of the SKEANIE family.”

SKEANIE was established in Australia in 2007 and went on to enjoy enormous success, such as becoming the preferred provider of the Australian Podiatry Association and is a member of both the NCWA and IFRA organisations.Children’s podiatrist expert Tracy Byrne, who recently joined SKEANIE as a consultant, says:
“As well as providing room for natural growth, SKEANIE’s soft-soled shoes allow sensory feedback from the ground, which is especially important for little ones learning to walk and getting to know their surroundings. Research shows that youngsters who wear flat, soft-soled shoes have improved proprioception, balance and foot and ankle strength.”

SKEANIE products have already proven very successful for Leicester-based designer childrenswear store Clafoutis, where Keeley Bakewell says:
“We’ve been amazed at the response we’ve had to SKEANIE’s Winter range; customers are attracted to the designs and then even more impressed with the quality of the products. We’re really looking forward to any future ranges, as I think repeat customers always remember quality footwear.”

SKEANIE previews SS12 Collection at ISRA show: Children’s footwear brand SKEANIE makes strides in Ireland 

Critically acclaimed children’s footwear brand SKEANIE is delighted to announce it will be exhibiting its Spring/Summer 2012 collection at the ISRA trade show in Kildare, in February.

The brand recently landed in Ireland and Europe, bringing with it a mission to create stylish, super-soft leather footwear that nurtures and protects small feet. SKEANIE has also received a lot of interest from the trade since exhibiting at Moda and Kind Jungen in 2011, with a buzz about the brand really gaining in momentum.
SKEANIE’s infant range includes soft suede soles that give grip for tiny feet as they are growing and exploring, while the junior collection incorporates innovative flexible rubber soles to provide unrestricted movement. These products will be showcased by SKEANIE at the ISRA show on February 12th-13th in the Glen Royal Hotel, Maynooth, Co Kildare.

Director Nick Richardson says:
“ISRA is the first major trade show we’re attending in Ireland and we’re really excited about sharing the SKEANIE philosophy with the ISRA members who will be visiting the event and with the Irish market.  We can’t wait to display our SS12 collection and spread the word about our brand.”

The company was established in Australia in 2007 and has already enjoyed enormous success, such as becoming the preferred provider of the Australian Podiatry Association.

Children’s podiatrist expert Tracy Byrne, who recently joined SKEANIE as a consultant, says:
“As well as providing room for natural growth, SKEANIE’s soft-soled shoes allow sensory feedback from the ground, which is especially important for little ones learning to walk and getting to know their surroundings. Research shows that youngsters who wear flat, soft-soled shoes have improved proprioception, balance and foot and ankle strength.” 

Katy MacKay from Holistic Health in East London says:
“We have been selling SKEANIE shoes at Holistic Health for the past two months and they are proving very popular. I never realised how important and difficult finding the right footwear for babies and toddlers can be. Every parent that walks through our door is drawn to the little shoes as they not only look adorable but they also look really cosy and comfy. They are so relieved to find shoes that are healthy for their little one’s feet!”
SKEANIE warmly welcomes trade and media appointments for the show on 0161 374 0713. 


SKEANIE supports independent businesses with IFRA membership

Acclaimed children’s footwear brand SKEANIE, new to the UK market, has chosen to join the UK’s leading footwear organisation, the Independent Footwear Retailers Association (IFRA).

Following its successful launch in Australia, SKEANIE has now brought its super-cute, handmade eco-leather shoes to British consumers, providing a collection of beautifully unique pieces that are practical and allow tiny feet to grow and breathe. 

SKEANIE’s infant range includes soft suede soles to give a non-slip surface as babies begin to explore new surroundings, while the junior collection has an innovative flexible rubber sole that moves with the wearer.

Director Nick Richardson says:
“IFRA’s ethos of supporting smaller, independent businesses works in tune with our own belief that quality is paramount. Joining IFRA will allow us to meet others operating in the same market at the same time as gaining invaluable expert advice, sharing best practice and promoting the benefits of SKEANIE to the trade.”
IFRA helps shoppers to pinpoint their nearest independent footwear retailer, where they can find distinguishable goods not on offer at generic chains and high streets. Its regular contact with government departments and organisations such as the British Chambers of Commerce give members a national voice, while regular regional meetings and seminars keep members informed of developments within the industry. 


Children’s footwear brand SKEANIE joins forces with NCWA

Critically acclaimed children’s footwear brand SKEANIE is delighted to announce its membership with the National Children’s Wear Association (NCWA), at the heart of the industry.

Following its successful launch in Australia, SKEANIE is now beginning to make strides on British soil with its collection of stylish and health-conscious footwear for babies, infants and juniors.
The footwear uses eco-leather to create suede-soled shoes for pre-walkers and its innovative rubber soles allow junior feet to grow and breathe while exploring new territory. 

Director Nick Richardson said:

“We feel it is so important to be part of the industry and joining NCWA provides us with a greater voice and enables us to meet others operating in the same market, while gaining invaluable expert advice, as well as sharing best practice and promoting the benefits and credentials of SKEANIE to the trade.”
SKEANIE’s fellow NCWA members include top names in the children’s wear sector, represented by the organisation as part of its lobbying activity on subjects such as the zero-rate of VAT which is currently maintained by the industry. 

The body has been running for almost 70 years and is able to make introductions between members, as well as providing a voice for companies in the business arena.

SKEANIE’s merits have already been recognised by other prestigious trade bodies overseas, such as the Australian Podiatry Association, which named SKEANIE as one of its preferred providers. 

SKEANIE to showcase new 2012 range at The Baby Show!

SKEANIE, the Australian manufacturer of fun, funky and most importantly foot-friendly shoes will be showcasing its 2011 Autumn/Winter, and launching its 2012 Spring/Summer collections at the Baby Show at Olympia. This will be the first time that its 2012 Spring / Summer collection has been showcased in Europe and will feature infant (UK size Newborn to 8.5) and junior (UK size 5.5 to 10) shoes.

SKEANIE, which was founded by Natasha Barber, specialises in manufacturing high quality shoes that not only provided the critical health benefits that podiatrists and paediatricians continue to campaign for but are also stunningly stylish and fun. Since its launch SKEANIE has become synonymous with making little feet happy, healthy and hip and has won much acclaim from celebrity parents and key foot health specialists. 

Leading podiatrist Jayne McGreal states:
“The most important thing for little feet is that they are free to move. SKEANIE shoes incorporate the fundamental design elements recommended by podiatrists and pediatricians. The most important shoe choice ever for a child is the first, and SKEANIE is an excellent choice for those little gorgeous, plump feet.”

Nick Richardson, Managing Director of United Brand Management, SKEANIE’s European distributor adds:
“We are absolutely delighted to be showcasing SKEANIE at the Baby Show, and cannot wait to let people see the quality of the products first hand. SKEANIE shoes are not just made of the softest leather, but are designed to be extremely flexible to aid the development of the child’s foot and in line with the latest fashion trends”

Highlights of the 2011 Autumn Winter range include the stunning  ‘Winter Boots’, ‘Sneakies’, ‘Classic Plains’ and ‘Sporty Sneakers’.

SKEANIE to Take First Footsteps into Europe!

SKEANIE, the Australian based designer of fun, funky and most importantly foot friendly shoes has appointed United Brand Management as their exclusive European distributor, which will see their ultra-foot friendly shoes take their first exciting steps into Europe!

SKEANIE is the brainchild of Natasha Barber, who became frustrated with not being able to find good quality shoes in styles that reflected current fashion trends decided to do her own research into what makes the perfect shoe to ensure happy, healthy and hip feet! During Natasha’s research, she found out a lot about feet such as, little feet are mostly cartilage, with most bones not fully formed until the adolescence, which is why it is vitally important for little feet to wear quality shoes that allow for freedom of movement. 

Nick Richardson, Managing Director for United Brand Management Ltd enthuses,
“We are absolutely delighted to be working with Natasha and to have joined the SKEANIE family! SKEANIE shoes are not just made of the softest leather, with the shapes of the shoes mimicking the rounded shape of the child’s foot, but are also ethical (Fair Trade Made), extremely fashionable, comfortable and endorsed by the Australian Podiatry Association” 

Natasha Barber, Owner of SKEANIE commented, 
“I am delighted that United Brand Management has joined us. It certainly is a great step forward for the next stage of our companies’ development. We look forward to making our footmark in Europe!”