Footprints in the sand …

John Lobb is one of the oldest bootmakers in the country.

Based at 9 St James’s Street London they’ve been making boots for over 170 years.

And with Royal Warrants, dating back to 1863, have a well-deserved reputation for making some of the finest bespoke footwear available.

But how did it all start?

Born on a farm in Cornwall in 1829 it was hoped that young John would follow in his father’s footsteps, but breaking a leg as a young boy meant he would have to find employment elsewhere.

After serving an apprenticeship with a local bootmaker the ambitious Lobb set his sights on making his fortune shoeing prospectors during the Australian gold rush.

Returning to London and setting up in business on his own he knew that he needed to do something special to stand out.

Out walking in one of the capital’s parks one day the enterprising Lobb spotted footprints left by the then Prince of Wales and took measurements from them.

After returning to his workshop, he set to work making a pair of riding boots for him.

When they were finally completed and presented to the Prince of Wales they were of such quality and distinction that Lobb was awarded the firm’s first Royal Warrant.

Nearly two centuries on, the options for us to promote our goods and services are a great deal more varied, but we don’t always have to splash the cash to make a big impact.

Keeping things simple can pay enormous dividends.

Have a great week.

Alec