CHARITY STEPS FORWARD WITH BRAND OVERHAUL

The Footwear Benevolent Society (FBS) has undergone a facelift to give it a more contemporary look and feel.
The charity has a brand new name, Footwear Friends which is supported by an eye-catching logo. The refreshed look, which includes the catchline ‘a friend to those in need’ will be unveiled by the FBS at its AGM in London on 14th June.

For over 170 years the FBS has provided financial assistance to individuals and families who have worked within the shoe trade. It is estimated that over half a million people will have worked within the industry at some time. The FBS is committed to making sure the contributions of those individuals is not forgotten and sets out to assist individuals and their families who have fallen on hard times.

Over the last 15 years the FBS has consistently been able to help over 250 people every year and during this time has handed more than £1 million to its beneficiaries.

Simon Goodman, FBS chairman, said: “In recent years the UK footwear industry has undergone major change and we needed a younger, fresher look to ensure our charity remains relevant. Although the term ‘benevolent’ has been part our name for over 100 years, we needed something that was shorter and punchier - just like Footwear Friends! We are delighted with the result and feel that this is another positive milestone in our history.”

If you would like to know more about Footwear Friends please call Zoisa Buczacki on 01223 566 212.

About Footwear Friends:
Footwear Friends (previously the Footwear Benevolent Society) has been in existence since 1836. The Society is a charity for people who have worked in any part of the shoe trade - manufacture, distribution, retail, repair, design, and shoe component manufacture - and their families. Its mission is to provide financial assistance to anyone who has served our industry, but has fallen on hard times.

Over the 170 years that the Society has been in existence it has, in the main, been financed by those who also work in the shoe trade. For further information please visit www.fbscharity.org.uk.