Barker Footwear (Pty)
Barker Footwear (Pty): A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Quality
Founding and Growth:
Established in 1933 by Ernest Barker from Earls Barton, England, Barker Footwear began its journey when Barker brought a group of skilled craftsmen to Cape Town, South Africa. Positioned near the scenic Table Mountain, the company blossomed into a successful shoe manufacturing venture. This growth was further amplified in 1952 when Barker Footwear acquired the rights to produce shoes under the prestigious Crockett & Jones brand.
Product Range:
Barker Footwear is renowned for its high-quality welted and stuck-on men’s leather shoes. The company produces shoes under its flagship brands, Barker and Crockett & Jones, which have become synonymous with excellence and are highly sought after by discerning clientele.
Acquisition by Bolton Footwear:
In a significant development, Barker Footwear was acquired by Bolton Footwear in 2013, marking a new chapter in its history.
Bolton Footwear: A Diverse Heritage:
- Early Beginnings (1859): Bolton Footwear’s origins can be traced back to Charles Searle, an English immigrant who settled as a tollkeeper at Great Brak River. He crafted rugged leather veldschoen stitch-down boots, catering to the operators of ox-wagon trains between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.
- Diversification and Focus (20th Century): The company expanded into various sectors including a tannery, sawmill, timber home construction, retail, and automotive sales and services. However, in the 1990s, it strategically refocused exclusively on footwear.
- Corporate Evolution: Initially listed on The Johannesburg Stock Exchange in 1949 as Searles Holdings, the company underwent several changes. It was acquired by Desmond Bolton in 1980 and, after restructuring, was renamed Bolton Footwear in 1987. The company was delisted in 2000 and now operates as Bolton Footwear (Pty) Ltd.
Contact Information for Barker Footwear (Pty):
Location: Elsies Rivier, Industrial Centre, Cape Town Phone: +27 (0)21 590 7000 Email: info@bolwear.co.za Website: www.bolwear.co.za
Conclusion:
Barker Footwear, under the stewardship of Bolton Footwear, continues its tradition of producing quality men’s leather shoes, combining years of craftsmanship with a commitment to excellence. The brands under its umbrella have become a symbol of quality and style in the footwear industry.
