DUO puts best boot forward with new Beacon status
DUO, the world's leading retailer of 'perfectly fitting footwear,' has been given Beacon status in recognition of its innovative approach to retail and commitment to developing the local economy in Frome.
From its base in the South West, DUO has pioneered the concept of the ultimate fit; developing calf fitting boots and width fitting shoes for the diverse wardrobe requirements of today's stylish woman. The company's revolutionary hand crafted knee highs are available in 21 different calf measurements, giving customers of all shape and size the look and feel of 'made-to-measure' at an attainable high street price.
Having started with one retail outlet in Bath 30 years ago, DUO is now a multi channel retailer with the lion's share of its business coming from online and mail order. Last season, 71 per cent of the company's business came from online and mail order custom, though there is now an ever increasing high street presence with Fitting Rooms on Saville Row, in Edinburgh, Manchester and Amsterdam. More like a tailor than a traditional shoe shop, the Fitting Rooms combine the best of mail order with traditional high street shopping, allowing customers to 'try and buy' whilst having their purchases ordered online and sent straight to a destination of choice.
Duo has also taken a key role in two local projects in Frome, setting a high standard for other South West businesses to follow. It is throwing its weight behind Vision for Frome, a group dedicated to planning a strategy for Frome in the next 25 years and The Memorial Theatre project, as well as providing jobs for more than 25 local people.
The first new Beacon company of 2008, Duo joins more than 200 businesses in the region with the coveted Beacon status, including Aardman Animations, Burts Potato Chips, Mulberry, Midas Group and Triodos Bank. A key initiative of the South West of England Regional Development Agency (RDA), Beacon South West brings together forward-thinking companies in the region to pool knowledge and expertise and spearhead economic growth.
Sue Baker, director of Beacon South West, comments on Duo's membership of Beacon: "When we came across Duo, we knew it was just the sort of business that embodies the strengths of the South West business community. Oozing innovation and pioneering in retail, we are looking forward to the contributions it will make to the Beacon community. The retailer's commitment to making a positive and notable contribution to Frome makes it an excellent ambassador for the region and a company from which we have a lot to learn."
Despite being more than 30 years old, the business has adapted to the changing retail scene and placed itself in an enviable position as its expands across Europe. Since 2003, the company has grown rapidly and its staff team has ballooned from 20 to 139 employees in 2008. Much of this expansion is due to detailed analysis of both potential new markets and the buying patterns of the company's target customer groups. DUO's commitment to providing excellent customer service has also been fundamental to its success, proof of which is demonstrated in the raft of unsolicited thank you emails it receives each year. In addition, last time DUO issued a customer research questionnaire to its database, the firm received 4,400 responses, an 80 per cent success rate and further proof of its strong customer relationships.
Nick Sinfield, managing director of DUO, says: "We have had a phenomenal year and I hope that our teams will see our new Beacon status as external recognition of the work we are doing. By being a part of this cluster of leading businesses, we look forward to benefiting from the skills and experience of other Beacon companies and to sharing our own journey with others."
The Autumn/Winter 2007-08 boot collection from Duo features 33 different styles available in 21 calf widths. The new Spring/Summer 08 shoe collection launches on 1 March 2008.
