Kate Tansley is stepping down as Start-Rite CEO and assuming an active non-executive director position, where she will work closely with the Board. The business is actively recruiting for her replacement. Tansley has held the position since 2019.

Despite the extraordinary challenges of 2020, Start-Rite had a successful year. The company is ready to capitalise on this through 2021; having shown resilience and agility in response to changing global circumstances.

During the turbulent 2020 trading, Start-Rite drove strong growth in ecommerce sales by 43% in value terms. It also witnessed a 350% uplift in unique page views to its measuring at home section.

Start-Rite continues to deliver new and innovative product.

Driven by consumer demand, the brand launched its first-ever vegan school shoes online in January. This initial four style school range comes with Start-Rite’s hallmark high standards. The shoes are not just a PU or textile substitute, but also use adhesive with no animal content.

The new upper material is lightweight, breathable, durable and water-resistant. It has also passed rigorous testing on factors such as surface abrasion and wet and dry flex testing in an on-site laboratory, as well as active wear trials.

‘Start-Rite is a wonderful British heritage brand,” says Tansley. “I feel so privileged to have been given the opportunity with such a talented team who will continue to drive the brand forward.

“Due to ongoing health issues, the time is right for me to step aside. I am pleased to be able to remain with the business and support the brand along its ongoing very positive trajectory.”

For further information on Start-Rite, please click here.