Sophie Mirman, founder of Trotters, has been awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in His Majesty the King’s Birthday Honours List for services to retail.
The honour recognises a remarkable career that has seen Mirman become one of Britain’s most respected entrepreneurs, building businesses that have delighted generations of customers while remaining committed to supporting families, communities and charitable causes.
While Mirman forged her own path in retail, entrepreneurship runs in the family.
Her mother, renowned milliner Simone Mirman, designed hats for Queen Elizabeth II and Diana, Princess of Wales, while her father helped introduce Christian Dior to the UK in the 50s. Inspired by this heritage of creativity and innovation, Mirman went on to build an impressive retail legacy of her own.
After beginning her career at M&S, she went on to co-found the Sock Shop, before launching Trotters with her husband and business partner, Richard Ross, in 1990. Together, they opened the first Trotters store on London’s King’s Road to offer parents exceptional products, expert service and a welcoming experience for children.
From specialised shoe fittings aboard the famous Trotters Train, to carefully curated childrenswear, toys and books, and dedicated children’s hairdressing salons, Mirman helped redefine what a family shopping experience could be.
More than 36 years later, Trotters remains a family-owned business, trusted by generations of families and recognised for its commitment to quality, service and creating memorable experiences for children.
Mirman has always believed in using success as a force for good.
Through Trotters and her personal charitable work, she has supported organisations dedicated to improving the lives of children and families, including Brompton Fountain and Place2Be.
Together with the Cairn Trust, she helped build two schools in rural Nepal, creating opportunities for children to access education. This commitment to supporting young people has remained a constant throughout her career and continues to shape the values of the business she founded.
“Everyone at Trotters is absolutely delighted to see Sophie receive this richly deserved honour,” says Bruce Langlands, CEO of Trotters. “Her vision, entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering commitment to excellence have shaped not only our business, but also the lives of so many colleagues, customers and families over the past four decades. Sophie’s achievements extend far beyond retail. Her generosity, dedication to charitable causes and genuine care for people have always been at the heart of everything she does. We could not be prouder to celebrate this special moment with her.”
Also commenting is Sophie Mirman OBE.
“I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive this award. Looking back, I feel incredibly fortunate to have spent my career doing something I love and working alongside so many talented people.
“From the very beginning, Trotters has been about families, community and creating something special for our customers. This recognition is one that I share with my husband Richard, our wonderful team, and everyone who has been part of the journey over the past 35 years.”
As Trotters celebrates its 36th anniversary year, Mirman’s OBE is a fitting tribute to a lifetime of entrepreneurship, leadership and service, and to the lasting impact she has made on British retail and the families it serves. For further information on Trotters, please click here.