Northampton shoemakers unite behind Shoetown 2027 festival
Northampton's shoemaking industry is preparing to take centre stage with the development of Shoetown 2027, a new festival celebrating the town's footwear heritage, manufacturing expertise and traditional craftsmanship (May 15-16).
The initiative was announced at a launch briefing at Northampton Museum & Art Gallery, organised by footwear maker Crown Northampton with support from West Northamptonshire Council and some of the region's best-known footwear manufacturers.
Seven established shoemaking businesses are supporting the initiative: Cheaney, Crockett & Jones, Edward Green, John Lobb, Sanders, Springline and Tricker's.
The briefing included a live demonstration of hand-welting, highlighting the specialist skills that have helped establish Northampton's reputation as one of the world's leading centres for high-quality leather footwear.
Organisers hope Shoetown 2027 will attract international visitors, particularly from Japan, the US and Europe, while showcasing the people, businesses and expertise that underpin the local footwear industry.
The longer-term ambition is to establish Shoetown as an annual event.
Businesses, educational institutions, cultural organisations and community groups interested in participating are being invited to get involved.
