For 75 years Van Dal have seen their stylish ladies footwear go from success to success, which is definitely cause for celebration. Van Dal's production was first moved to Norwich after it was established by Adelman Goodman, and there it remains, along with the majority of its manufacturing. This gives them the distinguished Made in England factor, which continues to add to its high-quality, stylish footwear.

In order to celebrate this landmark year in their business, Van Dal held a prestigious gathering at Norwich Cathedral, inviting around 150 guests to enjoy their day with them. There were motivational speeches and guest appearances as well as a tour of the factory in which their shoes are made. The factory boasts 60,000 sq ft and the production of 450,000 pairs of ladies shoes in 65 different styles per year (including some third party manufacturing in India).

Managing director of The Florida Group (which Van Dal is part of), Tony Linford, offered his comments on the event to the Norwich Evening News:

“I think one of the main reasons we have lasted so long is commitment. We've remained committed to maintaining made in England as an attribute, and the family have a very strong commitment to the area.

“We want to keep as much of the business in Norwich as we possibly can, so if we work with an advertising agency for example we will try to make sure they are a local one.”

Van Dal's pride of heritage is key as the company still remains within the family, with today's chairman, Simon Goodman, being the original founders grandson. Equally, the location is an integral part of the brand, with their footwear being predominantly manufactured in England. As Linford also comments, their appreciation for all who are involved is reflected in their gathering:

“It's great because it's rare that you get everyone together involved with the process like this, and we've really brought everyone together.”

Conducted by Mr Goodman and one of the factory's managers, Graham Hadley, the tour of the factory gave an insight into the care and dedication that goes into producing Van Dal shoes. Tours of the factory are currently available to the public too.

It is their pride of being a Made in England brand that won't see them moving in the foreseen future, as Linford says:

“In the future it's inevitable that things will be different. The world is changing, and with the recession we've got retailers going out of business every day, but I see an increase in the idea of made in England, and there's more awareness that cheapest isn't necessarily best. After 75 years there's no need to move.”

Hobson Shoes Managing Directors Mark (Left) & Gary (Right) With Guest Speaker, Kriss Akabusi
At The Van Dal Event