News & Insights
Boost for Darlington as major shoe retailer opens new store
Darlington law firm Latimer Hinks has played a key role in a property deal which will see a well-known shoe retailer open in Darlington.
Charles Clinkard is investing a total of 500,000 in its 23rd store nationwide, which will be opened in the former Williams Music building in the towns Blackwellgate. Around 15 jobs will be created before the planned opening in early July. Established as a family run shop in 1924 by Charles and Eveline Clinkard, Charles Clinkard Fine Footwear has now grown to be the leading independent footwear retailer in the North East and one of the largest independents in the UK.
Latimer Hinks has a long-standing relationship with The Clinkard Group and assists with the majority of the businesss legal issues, together with the familys private affairs. Partner Neil Stevenson undertook the legal work to bring the deal to purchase the Blackwellgate property to a successful conclusion.
Neil said: This is an excellent addition to Clinkards portfolio and one which fully compliments the existing business and strengthens its position in the market. The property is in an excellent trading position and gives Clinkards the opportunity to bring its brand strengths to a new market.
Charles Clinkard, managing director of The Clinkard Group said: We have long considered Darlington as an ideal situation for a store and were delighted when the opportunity arose to acquire the property in Blackwellgate.
The town centre has benefited from a considerable amount of investment, which is transforming its retail heart. We are an ambitious, forward-thinking organisation and the expansion into Darlington is part of our strategic development plans for the future. Latimer Hinks legal expertise and our excellent professional relationship have been invaluable over the years.
