Founder of Yull Shoes, Sarah Watkinson-Yull has partnered with Staffa Shoes in East London to produce her range of high heeled women’s shoes which sell in Europe, the US, Asia and Far East.
Thanks to a grant from the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) – which is now part of the Business Growth Service, Watkinson-Yull is about to introduce a third line of shoes to her range.
The young designer explained: “The Business Growth Service’s financial support has been critical to help my business achieve growth.
“I’m proud to be supporting British manufacturing and predict my sales and turnover will increase by 30% next year as a direct result of their support.
“International customers love British-made products. When I began, everyone told me that it was hopeless to try and make shoes here and that I should give up. I was determined to prove them wrong and with a small grant from MAS, I’m about to expand my range even further.”
Business Growth Manager, Jeff Mallows added that the costs of developing a prototype pair of shoes and patterns from East London supplier Staffa Shoes has given Watkinson-Yull the help that she needs to achieve additional growth: “She has amazing determination and talent and we are proud to support her.”
Managing director of Staffa Shoes in East London, Jack Savva said: “With more than 35 years of shoemaking experience, I realised that Sarah had what it takes. She’s pushy and I like that. She has the drive to succeed and we look forward to her continued growth.”
The new range is hoped to be launched in Spring/Summer 2016.
