New shop opening on Stonegate – after historic brand says York is ‘the perfect city for us’

An historic British brand is to move into Stonegate after deciding York was a perfect fit.

Established in 1880, Loake Shoemakers makes footwear at its factory in Kettering. It has 20 shops in the UK – and the branch on Stonegate will be the 21st.

It is planning to takeover at the old Rohan shop, left empty after the outdoor clothing retailer moved further up the street.

General sales manager Richard Utting said: “The decision to open in a specific location is a mixture of many things.

“In the case of York, you start with the population breakdown, ages, income, socio-demographic details, gender etc and this is compared to the equivalent details that we have for our existing Loake customers.

“Add to this the local catchment area and tourist flow, car parks, similar retailers and competitors.

“Then we look at the aesthetics, style of buildings, is it a pleasurable experience to visit (York scores very highly on this)? Finally, it is essential to find the right unit at the right price in the right location.

“Most of this research is done before a suitable location is found. York is the perfect city for Loake across most of these criteria.”

Dating from the 17th century, the shop building is Grade II listed. Planning documents state: “Proposals for 24 Stonegate are principally related to the new internal fit out as a Loake shoe shop.

“The majority of changes do not impact upon historic fabric, being the addition of free standing furniture and redecoration of modern surface finishes.”

No date has been set for the opening.