Family footwear retailer Charles Clinkard is marching forward with its plans for expansion by opening its first concession on the Isle of Man.

The latest addition to the growing shoe retailer’s brand has opened in the Tynwald Mills shopping centre, its second non-mainland UK concession.

Known for its exclusive range of quality brands, the company has stepped in to avoid another empty space in the UK’s under-pressure high street.

Charles Clinkard, managing director, said: “We’re delighted to open our first concession on the Isle of Man - and in such a diverse location. 

“We’re also thrilled to welcome new staff and to have been able to recruit employees from the previous concession.

“Our employees are a vital part of our long-term success and their industry expertise and local knowledge will be a huge asset.”

The company has also added a further three concessions to its growing portfolio, opening two in Hampshire – in Romsey and New Milton – and one in Jersey.

Since starting in the North East over 90 years ago, the company has gone from strength-to-strength and is now a nationwide success with 36 stores and 7 concessions across the UK.

Charles said: “As we continue to spread around the country from our North East base, I’m looking forward to identifying further opportunities for expansion in the future.”