Davies Shoes to Close After 98 Years of Service
- intouch Magazine
- 22 minutes ago
- 2 min read
After nearly a century of dedicated service, Newcastle’s iconic Davies Shoes is closing its doors for the final time.
“While the decision was not made lightly, I feel the time is now right for me to retire,” said Davies Shoes owner, Ivor Davies.
Davies Shoes was established by Ivor’s father, Emlyn Davies, in Kurri Kurri in September 1927, and opened in Mayfield in December 1939. After Emlyn died in 1946, his wife Edna carried on the business, with the help of her son Trevor. Younger son, Ivor, having worked in the shop as a schoolboy, commenced permanent employment with the business in 1964, taking full control in 1978.
Over its 98 years, Davies Shoes has proudly served generations of customers and is renowned for its commitment to quality footwear, expert fitting, and personalised service.
“I am so proud of what we have achieved with the business as it reflects my passion for beautiful, well-fitted shoes, and we have been rewarded with amazing loyalty from our customers and staff,” said Ivor.
“Our senior shop assistant, Linda Finney, has been with us for over 25 years and we are so grateful to her for her commitment and dedication.”
The shop is probably best known for its school shoe business, with countless children heading back to school in footwear expertly fitted by ‘Mr. Davies’.
“We have customers who are the fourth generation of their family to be fitted with school shoes by us,” said Ivor.
“My wife, Pam, and daughters, Sally and Holly, worked at the shop for many a Back to School period. It’s been a real family affair.”
“It is going to be very difficult to say goodbye to the shop, and my incredible customers, many of whom have become friends over the years. While it’s sad to see it close, I want people to celebrate that we have been in business for 98 years which is a remarkable milestone,” said Ivor.
The Davies Shoes family extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who have supported the store through the decades. There will be amazing price reductions in store and many bargains to be had. Please come in for a chat, share your memories, and grab your last pair of shoes from Davies Shoes.
