Baker’s Shoes in Waiuku has been a family run business for almost three decades and this month celebrates 30 years in business. The shop was opened by Grace Sullings in 1967 then subsequently bought by Harry and Pam Latta in 1980 and has always been a shoe shop. Fiona and Clark Baker bought the business in 1992 and changed the name to Baker’s Shoes and More. Whilst the store and the style of what it sells has undergone some significant changes, there has been one thing that has remained constant and that is the commitment to quality product at reasonable pricing.
Fiona is a true local moving to Waiuku for her last year at secondary school – her dad, Jock Thomson, was born and bred in Waiuku so it felt like coming home. Fiona’s husband, Clark, has lived all his life here in Waiuku as does his mother, Marguerite (nee Holmes) so the family has many local connections.
Despite an increase in shopping malls chain stores and discount outlets, Baker's Shoes and More remains a true icon in Waiuku and beyond, with many coming to the shop due to its variety of style and trust in Fiona and her team to provide what they are looking for. It does not come as a surprise for Fiona who insists "Independents source different stock to the chains and this is why people come to us - new customers are amazed at the variety and service we offer." It is also one of the biggest independent shoe shops in the country as the previous owner combined two shops into one by knocking down an inside wall between two shops.
Fiona knows a thing or two about shoes but she says one of the secrets behind her success comes down to employing the right people. "I have had some wonderful ladies working for me over the years; long- serving staff really become part of extended family and we have lots of fun. Importantly Fiona's team is very people focused and has a great knowledge of footwear fitting and fashion.
To celebrate the momentous achievement, Fiona is going all out this month with specials and product giveaways. There are weekly prize draws for shoes and bags, a draw for a pair of CROCS, a gift with every purchase $30. 30% off slippers, end of line men’s Hush Puppies, discontinued CROCS and the last of Skechers styles and much more!
Spring/summer trends for the ladies are bright colours, patterned leathers, chain trims adorning vamp of sandals and leather sneakers, and the “Birkey” look is still strong. There are some lovely tans coming through for the men, and great styling from Skechers. The kids will love the colour range of CROCS we have in stock – the Classic Clog, and in the slide or sandal black or white.
As an independent business with an excellent reputation, Baker's Shoes has been the place to buy shoes for generations of local families, and Fiona is also noticing a resurgence in children’s footwear sales thanks to the “Buy Local” mindset and new customers moving into the area and learning that she is all about old fashioned service. “Once a Baker’s Shoes customer, you will come back time and time again. We pride ourselves on customer service which you don't get so much in the big nationals." She smiles.
For more information, relax and unwind at the shop on 8 Kitchener Road in Waiuku, which also boasts excellent parking, or call the friendly team on (09) 235 8507. Alternatively, you can visit the website on
www.bakersshoes.co.nz.
Weekly shoe & bag Prize draws