National shoe retailer invests £150k in revamping first ever store in Middlesbrough

Charles Clinkard the national shoe retailer, has made significant improvements to its first ever store by investing £150k in a makeover of its Middlesbrough branch.

The Corporation Road site was the first Charles Clinkard store to be opened in 1924.

The investment has seen all the existing departments moved downstairs and the addition of a new ‘clearance’ floor upstairs.

Charles Clinkard, managing director, said: “This store will always hold a special place in our hearts, as it was the first to be opened by my grandparents Charles and Eveline more than 90 years ago.

“Our staff and customers have helped us create so many happy memories here and we’re hoping this new look store will allow us to create many more for years to come.”

The store makeover coincides with the company’s partnership with a local autism charity which has provided specialist training to Clinkard staff.

Charles added: “We’ve been working with Daisy Chain to develop an autism-friendly environment in all of our stores – including Middlesbrough.

“We want to create the best possible in-store experience for our customers, which is why we’re investing not only in how they look, but also how our customers feel.”

Parents can now book appointments in advance for quieter times and staff can turn off in-store screens, dim the lights and offer sensory packs.

The retailer now operates nationwide with more than 30 stores across the UK.