Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/1508745
You were new to wholesale the last time we spoke, just launching Ziera. What have you enjoyed most about wholesale so far? Forging fresh partnerships and witnessing Ziera grow and thrive in new landscapes. Our goal was to deliver quality and value. I love hearing retailers reports that the shoes resonate with their customer and as a result, they are making real gross profit dollars. It's been inspiring and rewarding! Can you shed light on the growth of the Ziera brand over the past year and where things are going? Ziera's growth doubles (and then some) season after season. Our shoes touch lives- just like how a novel product or a compelling story does. So beyond numbers, it's about creating a lasting impact for real people, rooted in our understanding and addressing those real needs. What's the philosophy behind supporting independent retailers and how does Ziera envision its future relationship with the independent channel? My family and I still operate retail stores as do the Ziera brand owners in Australia, so independents are the heartbeat of our vision. As we grow, our commitment remains steadfast. Independent retailers are the ones who create lasting impact. Supporting independents is like believing in the underdog or the groundbreaking idea that others might overlook. Independents ALWAYS recognize potential, nurture it and make it flourish. It's the essence of blending tradition with fresh perspectives. We're in this dance together, and trust me, we're making some epic moves! So what's the next big step for Ziera? We're always looking forward, envisioning what's next, wondering how we can push boundaries while staying true to our core values. We tested the brand Django & Juliette and the response has been beyond incredible- blowing me away. What market gap does Django & Juliette address, and how does it differ from Ziera? Django & Juliette caters to the fashion- savvy woman seeking unique, on trend styling in soft leathers and footbeds. She may not always want the contoured footbed that Ziera is built around, but she cannot go all day with zero comfort features either. So while Ziera seamlessly blends traditional comfort with style, Django & Juliette offers a modern, edgy twist on comfort. Together, they craft two harmonious yet distinct footwear stories that belong in every better grade shoe store. Where do you see the company in the next 5 years in terms of offerings and market presence? In the next 5 years, I envision both Ziera and Django & Juliette being known as trusted, cornerstone brands in independent retailers' stores. Our ambition is not just growth, but to become synonymous with reliability and quality in the marketplace. We aim to ensure Ziera and Django & Juliette are not only recognized but also sought after which to me is an exhilarating prospect! Visit us at: zierashoes.us All About the Shoe Business: The Next Big Step For Ziera One year later with Josh Habre, President of ERHCO: Ziera's Impact on Retailers' Bottom Line and What's Next