Kumfs Steps Into New Markets
New Zealand footwear manufacturer Kumfs shoes is set to step into some new markets this month, with the opening of an outlet store in Otaki, and a store in Melbourne which will sell both the latest range of shoes as well as factory seconds.
Kumfs Retail and Business Development General Manager, Robin Boyce, said the stores offer an excellent opportunity to further market the Kumfs brand, plus it creates jobs within the areas where they are opening.
“The new stores will carry a wide selection of Kumfs footwear from past seasons. The majority of the products will be overruns, end of line and seconds all sold at a discounted price.
“By opening the stores, we will also be able to move stock on more regularly allowing for a greater range and turn over of new styles at Kumfs stores.”
Robin said Otaki was chosen as a location for one of the new stores, due to its rapidly growing reputation as an outlet shopping destination.
“Otaki is fast becoming the destination of choice for outlet shopping in the lower North Island, therefore, we wanted to ensure that our end-of-line and overruns store was located there.”
The Melbourne store will be the first of its kind for Kumfs in Australia. Located in the popular Bridge Road factory shop area, the store will sell both new season shoes as well as factory seconds.
“Bridge Road is an extremely well-known area across the whole of Australia, and having a Kumfs store located there will introduce a whole new group of customers to the Kumfs brand,” Robin said.
And, while customers are often happy to serve themselves in an outlet or factory store, expert assistance will still be on hand at both the Otaki and Melbourne stores.
“We know that it’s extremely important for people to purchase footwear that fits correctly, so Kumfs-trained staff will be available at both stores to assist with this.”
Robin said the two new stores are part of Kumfs’ retail expansion plan which will see the organisation continue to focus its efforts on growing opportunities in the US and Australian markets over the coming years.
“In the US we’re particularly looking at the area around Sacramento and San Francisco, where we plan to open four full-line stores in the next two years.
“There are also plans underway to open three further stores in Melbourne, and we’re also looking at the Brisbane central business district.”
There are currently 36 dedicated Kumfs stores across New Zealand, Australia and the USA, with the most recent store opened in Whangarei last month. Kumfs also distributes products to more than 500 retailers worldwide.