UK shoe restorer launches aftercare subscription service
The Handbag Clinic, a specialist UK shoe, handbag and leathergoods restorer, authenticator and reseller, has ventured into aftercare via a monthly subscription programme it is calling The Inner Circle.
Its new tiered membership system costs anywhere between as little as $10 (£7.99) to up to $75 (£59.99) per month for ten articles, ranging from footwear to bags, small leathergoods and leather apparel.
Plans include various degrees of cleaning, repair, protection and restoration services, complete with faster lead times, free shipping, exclusive event invitations and more.
The company, which has a presence in London, Newcastle, York and Colchester, as well as Monaco, was founded by Charlotte and Ben Staerck in 2013 and traces its roots back to “a family legacy of leather and fabric restoration”. It initially began as a cleaning and restoration service for bags and accessories, targeted at brands, department stores and their customers.
On launching The Inner Circle, Ms Staerck commented: “Luxury items are crafted from delicate and absorbent materials, which look beautiful but are highly disposed to wear and tear.
“Accidental stains are some of the most common problems we treat: dye transfer from jeans, liquid damage in restaurants and bars, hair dye from a visit to the salon, rainwater stains or a pen lid spillage – it can be devastating given the sentimental or monetary value invested.”
