It’s a family affair as Jake Shoes passes on to third generation

By Admin Jan 10, 20250

Jake Shoes, an independent shoe shop nestled in the heart of Altrincham, has become a beloved fixture in the community since its opening in 2017. Known for its wide range of quality footwear, from stylish UGG boots to durable Dr. Martens, the store quickly established itself as a go-to destination for both residents and visitors. However, its story stretches much further back, deep into the mid-1970s, when it first began as a small business in Bridlington.

The business was founded by Carol, Jake’s mother, who turned her passion for shoes into a thriving enterprise. Starting out in her hairdressing salon, Carol soon expanded to open the first full-fledged Jake Shoes store in Macclesfield, followed by another in Stockport. Carol’s dedication to quality footwear laid the groundwork for what would become a cherished family tradition.

Jake, her son, has carried that legacy forward since he took over the business in 1998. His involvement in the business began at a young age, helping his mother out in the shop as early as three years old. Under Jake’s leadership, the business grew and evolved, eventually finding a new home in Altrincham in 2017, where it continues to thrive.

Now, Jake is in the process of passing the torch to the third generation. His 23-year-old daughter, Maisy, who started working in the store as a child, is preparing to take the reins. From selling Crocs as a young girl to managing the business alongside her father, Maisy has been a part of the family’s journey every step of the way. The transition of the business to her is not only a continuation of the family legacy but a testament to the strength of the community ties that have supported Jake Shoes over the years.

As Jake Shoes moves into this new chapter, it remains a family-owned gem in Altrincham, with its roots firmly planted in the past and a bright future ahead, guided by the values that have always set it apart: personal service, quality products, and a deep commitment to the customers it serves.

The Beginnings of Jake Shoes

The story of Jake Shoes began in the mid-1970s, a time when the concept of independent shoe shops with a strong community focus was still in its early stages. Carol, the matriarch of the family, had a passion for shoes that went beyond simply selling them—she had an eye for quality, style, and customer service. It was this passion that led her to open the first Jake Shoes store, but not in the typical retail setting you might expect. Instead, she cleverly combined her love for footwear with her existing business, a hairdressing salon in Bridlington, where she first began selling shoes alongside her hairdressing services.

This innovative approach was the start of something special. Carol’s unique mix of offering shoes in an intimate, personal space allowed her to build strong connections with her customers. The success of her small venture quickly became apparent, and as word spread, she realized there was a growing demand for quality footwear. The business expanded beyond her salon, leading her to open the first standalone Jake Shoes store in Macclesfield.

The move to Macclesfield was a turning point. It allowed Jake Shoes to grow its offerings, attract a wider customer base, and establish itself as a trusted shoe retailer in the area. But Carol didn’t stop there. She expanded even further, opening a second store in Stockport shortly after, each location becoming a cornerstone of the local community, offering high-quality shoes to customers who appreciated the personal touch that came with each purchase.

By the late 1980s, Jake Shoes was no longer just a small, family-run shop but an established name in the retail landscape of the North. The foundations had been laid for what would eventually grow into a beloved and recognized brand, with the same core values of personalized service and high-quality products that Carol had instilled from the very beginning. As the business expanded, it not only provided a livelihood for the family but also became a part of the fabric of the communities it served, setting the stage for future generations to continue the legacy she had started.

Jake’s Role in the Business

Jake’s journey in the family business began at a very young age, long before he officially became part of the leadership team. As early as three years old, Jake could be found helping his mother, Carol, in her shops, learning the ropes of the business and absorbing the values that would later shape his approach to running Jake Shoes. His involvement wasn’t just about making an occasional appearance; it was about growing up in an environment where quality footwear and personalized customer service were at the core of everything. These early experiences instilled in him a passion for the business, which only deepened as he got older.

By the time he was in his late teens, Jake had already gained a significant understanding of the business’s day-to-day operations. When Carol decided to pass the reins to him in 1998, Jake was ready. At just 23 years old, he took over the family business and began to steer it through an exciting phase of growth. His vision for the business was clear: to maintain the same personal touch and commitment to quality that had made the store so successful while also expanding the brand’s reach and modernizing its operations.

Jake’s leadership marked a new chapter for Jake Shoes, and he made several important changes to keep the business thriving in an increasingly competitive market. One of his most notable achievements during this period was the opening of a store in Manchester city centre, a major step in raising the brand’s profile and attracting a broader audience. The Manchester location introduced Jake Shoes to new customers and helped solidify the brand’s reputation as a destination for quality footwear in the region.

However, it was the opening of the Altrincham store in 2017 that truly marked a milestone for the business. Altrincham, known for its vibrant high street and strong sense of community, was the perfect location for the next phase of Jake Shoes’ evolution. The move to Altrincham allowed the brand to tap into a new customer base while continuing to serve loyal patrons from Macclesfield and Stockport. It also represented a shift toward a more contemporary retail experience, with the store offering a carefully curated selection of popular and emerging brands, including UGG, Dr. Martens, Birkenstock, and Skechers. The Altrincham store quickly became a favorite among both locals and visitors, with its welcoming atmosphere and expertly selected footwear range making it a standout on the high street.

Under Jake’s leadership, Jake Shoes not only grew its footprint but also remained a family-centered business with a strong focus on customer relationships. Even as the business expanded, Jake never lost sight of the personal touch that had made the store special in the first place. His ability to balance tradition with innovation ensured the brand’s continued success, setting the stage for the next generation of the family to take over.

Maisy’s Journey into the Family Business

Maisy’s journey into the family business began long before most people would expect for someone her age. Growing up with Jake Shoes, she was surrounded by the hustle and bustle of the business from an early age, and it didn’t take long before she was actively involved in its operations. At just eight years old, Maisy started her first job in the store, though it was far from typical. She became known for selling Crocs, a brand that had just entered the market and quickly became popular. Maisy’s role was simple yet impactful: she helped customers find the right sizes of the quirky new footwear, all while learning the importance of customer service, product knowledge, and the value of a friendly, approachable demeanor.

Her early start in the business gave her a unique perspective on the importance of each role within the shop, even at a young age. Maisy didn’t just learn the basics of sales; she observed how the store operated, how relationships with customers were built, and how every shoe sold was part of a larger, family-driven mission to deliver quality and service. These early experiences made her not only familiar with the day-to-day workings of Jake Shoes but also invested in the brand’s success and its legacy.

As Maisy grew older, her role in the business naturally expanded. What started with assisting customers and running small errands soon turned into more substantial responsibilities. She moved from the shop floor to helping manage the business’s operations, balancing her time between the Altrincham and Stockport stores. Over the years, she honed her skills in inventory management, marketing, and customer relations. Her ability to connect with customers and provide exceptional service became a key asset to the store, building upon the foundation laid by her father and grandmother.

Maisy’s responsibilities have grown even further as she has taken on a more prominent role within the company. As Jake began stepping back from the day-to-day management of the store, Maisy embraced her new position, showing a deep commitment to the family business and its future. While she is still very much involved with the day-to-day operations, she has also played a significant role in the store’s strategic direction, helping to curate the product range and ensuring that Jake Shoes stays ahead of trends while still honoring its legacy.

Maisy’s journey has been one of gradual growth, from an eager eight-year-old selling Crocs to a confident and capable young woman who is now positioned to take over the family business. Her deep understanding of the brand, coupled with her passion for maintaining the family legacy, has prepared her to continue the work her grandparents and father began. As she steps into the future, Maisy is poised to carry Jake Shoes forward, keeping it a beloved, family-run staple in Altrincham and beyond, all while building upon the strong foundations laid by those who came before her.

The Transition to the Third Generation

As Maisy steps into the role of leading Jake Shoes into its third generation, her feelings are a mixture of excitement, pride, and a bit of nervousness. Taking over a family business is never an easy task, and the weight of the legacy that has been passed down through the years is not lost on her. For Maisy, the journey has been one of both preparation and self-discovery, as she has grown from a child working the shop floor to a young woman poised to guide the business into the future.

The transition has brought with it a unique set of challenges. While Maisy has been involved with the business for as long as she can remember, fully stepping into the leadership role requires a different set of skills and responsibilities. Managing the operations of two stores, overseeing inventory, developing new strategies for growth, and maintaining the business’s strong relationships with customers are all tasks that come with the territory. Maisy admits that the responsibility of taking over the family business can be a little overwhelming at times, but she is motivated by the opportunity to carry on the legacy that her grandmother, father, and other family members worked so hard to build.

Despite the challenges, Maisy is undeniably excited about the future of Jake Shoes. She feels a deep connection to the brand, not just as a family member but as someone who has grown up with it, learning its values and principles. The idea of continuing to provide quality footwear and excellent service to the community is something that drives her, and she is eager to explore new opportunities for the business, including expanding the product range, refining the customer experience, and potentially exploring new locations. In her eyes, taking the business into its next chapter is a way to honor the hard work and dedication of her family while infusing it with her own vision for the future.

At the same time, Maisy has the benefit of having her father, Jake, to lean on for support, guidance, and mentorship. Although Jake has stepped back from the daily operations of the shop, he remains involved behind the scenes, offering his wealth of experience and insight whenever needed. For Maisy, this ongoing support is invaluable. She knows that she is not alone in this transition and that her father will always be there to offer advice, troubleshoot challenges, and provide encouragement. The relationship between father and daughter remains a vital component of the business, with Jake ensuring that his legacy is carried forward in the way he always envisioned.

Jake’s continued involvement also provides Maisy with a strong safety net as she navigates the new responsibilities that come with managing the family business. Having seen the challenges and rewards of running Jake Shoes firsthand, Jake is in a unique position to offer advice from a place of experience, helping Maisy avoid common pitfalls while empowering her to make decisions that reflect her own style and leadership. Their partnership is a testament to the strength of the family bond and the shared vision they have for the future of the business.

As Maisy takes over the reins of Jake Shoes, the future looks bright. While the challenges are significant, the excitement and passion that Maisy brings to her new role are palpable. With the foundation of years of hard work and family commitment, coupled with the continued support of Jake, Maisy is ready to carry Jake Shoes into the next generation, ensuring its legacy endures for years to come.

Jake Shoes Today: A Family-Run Shop with a Personal Touch

Jake Shoes continues to be a beloved family-run business, maintaining the personal touch that has made it a staple in the Altrincham community since it opened in 2017. At the heart of the shop’s success is its strong team, many of whom have been with the store since its early days. This dedicated group of employees, some of whom have been part of the Jake Shoes family for years, are more than just staff—they are a vital part of what makes the shop unique. Their commitment to customer service, product knowledge, and a warm, welcoming environment has helped build lasting relationships with loyal customers. With a small yet strong team of 10, the shop exudes a familial atmosphere, ensuring that every visit feels personal and special.

The product range at Jake Shoes is carefully curated to cater to a wide variety of customers, from men and women to children. The store stocks an impressive selection of high-quality footwear, featuring popular and trusted brands like UGG, Dr. Martens, Birkenstock, Skechers, and Kickers. These well-known brands offer a mix of comfort, durability, and style, ensuring that customers find exactly what they’re looking for, whether it’s a classic pair of Dr. Martens boots or stylish UGG slippers for the colder months.

What truly sets Jake Shoes apart from other shoe shops, however, is its commitment to offering unique and exciting stock that isn’t readily available at every other store. Maisy and the team are constantly on the lookout for new and trendy footwear brands, and their latest addition, the Victoria brand, exemplifies this approach. This brand, popular for its stylish trainers, is a rare find in the UK, and Jake Shoes is one of the few retailers offering it in both men’s and women’s ranges. The store is known for offering products that make it stand out from the competition, ensuring that customers can find something different and exciting every time they visit.

In addition to offering these sought-after brands, Jake Shoes also stocks a range of other footwear, from comfortable everyday options to stylish, statement pieces. This variety appeals to a wide demographic, making it the go-to destination for all types of shoe lovers. The store’s reputation for offering something a little bit different has become a key selling point, and it’s clear that Maisy and her team have a keen eye for what will excite customers.

Looking to the Future

Looking ahead, Maisy’s vision for Jake Shoes is both exciting and forward-thinking. While maintaining the strong family values and personal touch that have been the foundation of the business for years, she is eager to take the store to new heights. One of her primary goals is to continue expanding the product range, bringing in fresh, on-trend footwear while maintaining the quality and diversity that customers have come to expect. As the business grows, Maisy is committed to ensuring that Jake Shoes continues to offer products that reflect her passion for both style and comfort.

Maisy is also excited about the possibilities of expanding the business in the future, potentially opening additional stores or expanding the online presence. However, despite any growth, she is determined to keep the personal, family-oriented nature of the shop intact. For Maisy, maintaining close relationships with customers and offering a shopping experience that feels personal and welcoming is just as important as expanding the brand. She envisions Jake Shoes not only as a place to buy shoes but as a community hub where customers feel valued and appreciated.

Moreover, Maisy plans to continue fostering the store’s legacy by staying deeply involved in the daily operations and ensuring that the store’s values are passed down through the generations. She is confident that Jake Shoes will continue to evolve with the times, offering a mix of traditional quality and modern trends. The business’s ability to adapt while holding onto its core family values is what Maisy believes will set it apart and allow it to thrive in the years to come.

Jake Shoes will undoubtedly continue to be a family-run business that puts people first. With Maisy at the helm and a dedicated team by her side, the future of Jake Shoes looks incredibly bright. Whether it’s adding new brands, expanding its reach, or continuing to offer the best customer service in Altrincham and beyond, Jake Shoes is poised for continued success and growth, all while staying true to the values that have made it a beloved part of the local community.

Conclusion: A Tradition of Quality and Community

From its humble beginnings in the 1970s to becoming a trusted name in footwear, Jake Shoes has grown into more than just a retail store it is a cherished community fixture. What started as a small business within a hairdressing salon in Bridlington has now evolved into a thriving family-run operation that has touched the lives of countless customers in Altrincham, Stockport, and beyond. Through the hard work and vision of Carol, Jake, and now Maisy, Jake Shoes has maintained its commitment to offering quality products and exceptional service, creating a lasting legacy that is built on trust, dedication, and a personal connection with its customers.

As the business transitions into its third generation with Maisy at the helm, the future looks incredibly promising. The strong foundation laid by previous generations, coupled with Maisy’s fresh perspective and enthusiasm, ensures that Jake Shoes will continue to offer an exciting range of footwear that meets the evolving tastes and needs of its customers. More than just a store, Jake Shoes remains deeply rooted in its family values, with a focus on personal relationships, exceptional customer service, and a dedication to the community.

With a legacy of quality, service, and a commitment to offering something unique, Jake Shoes is poised to continue serving customers for many more years to come. The family business will remain a beacon of tradition, blending the old with the new, and continuing to stand out in a crowded retail market.

Visit Jake Shoes

If you’re looking for high-quality footwear, a warm shopping experience, and a store that truly cares about its customers, look no further than Jake Shoes. With stores in Altrincham and Stockport, as well as a convenient online presence, Jake Shoes is ready to welcome you into their family. Whether you’re shopping for yourself, your children, or looking for the perfect gift, the knowledgeable and friendly team will ensure that you leave with the perfect pair of shoes. Visit today and experience the tradition of quality and community that has made Jake Shoes a beloved part of the neighborhood for decades.

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