US shoe brand celebrates a centenary of sustainability
Founded in 1922, Allen Edmonds is celebrating 100 years of shoe manufacture by offering the re-release on a limited run of some of their more collectable styles, with some having a futuristic re-style as sneaker versions.
With a history from supplying the US army and navy during World War 2 to being the inauguration day choice for many incoming presidents, Allen Edmonds have sold more than 12 million pairs of shoes to date. The footwear brand also lays claim to supporting sustainability long before it became fashionable, as customers have always been able to return a worn pair for a complete refurbishment.
Jay Schmidt, president of Caleres who acquired Allen Edmonds in 2016, recently stated that around 26,000 pairs are recrafted each year and over 1 million pairs have been put back into circulation. With the ability to be re-furbished up to four times, these shoes represent a lifelong investment.
