In 2017, Manolo Blahnik, the celebrated luxury shoe designer, embarked on a year filled with festivities and exploration. One of the highlights of the year was the traveling exhibition titled ‘The Art of Shoes,’ which took Manolo Blahnik enthusiasts on a journey through his iconic footwear and original drawings. This exhibition captivated audiences in various cities such as Canada, Milan, St. Petersburg, Prague, and Madrid, showcasing over 200 of his most famous shoes and 80 original drawings.
Accompanying the exhibition was the release of a documentary titled ‘The Boy Who Made Shoes for Lizards,’ offering an inside look into the life and work of Manolo Blahnik. Viewers were taken on a heartfelt journey from his humble beginnings in the Canary Islands to his rise as a sought-after shoe designer, known for his collaborations with top celebrities like Rihanna and Naomi Campbell.
Despite the success of these creative endeavors, the luxury shoe brand experienced a setback in terms of profits. A Companies House filing revealed a 28% decrease in pre-tax profits, falling to £8 million. The company cited various reasons for this decline, such as higher e-commerce commissions triggered by the rise in online sales and increased staff costs.
However, amidst the profitability challenges, Manolo Blahnik saw a 2% growth in turnover, reaching £34.8 million in 2017. This growth was fueled by exceptional performance across all sales channels, with a notable uptick in retail and e-commerce sales. Furthermore, the company’s expansion strategy included the opening of three standalone stores, further solidifying its presence in the luxury shoe market.
These growth indicators underscore the enduring popularity and success of Manolo Blahnik as a leading figure in the world of luxury footwear. Despite the temporary setback in profits, the brand’s loyal following and innovative designs continue to solidify its position in the competitive industry.
For more information on Manolo Blahnik’s latest collections and updates, visit their official website here.
To explore the documentary ‘The Boy Who Made Shoes for Lizards’ and delve deeper into the life of Manolo Blahnik, check out the trailer here.
