Fashion footwear label Aldo is extending its empire in Australia with the launch of a bespoke footwear line and beauty venture.
The label, which currently operates stores in 66 countries, is distributed in Australia by Busbrand and is preparing to introduce a premium collection of men’s shoes to market by November.
The debut “Mr B” collection, a nickname nod to company founder Aldo Bensadoun, will be sold exclusively through the Aldo Australian flagship store in Westfield Sydney via nine styles.
Product will range from brogues to penny loafers, lace-less toe caps and chukka boots, in sizes from 41-46, with prices from $189.95 to $219.95. Colours include black, dark brown and cognac, to dark grey and bordeux, with all styles constructed with leather upper and lining.
Busbrand managing director Simon Nankervis said the decision to introduce the “Mr B”collection to the Australian market is just one of many upcoming developments for the Aldo brand.
“The brand has been consolidating over the past 18 months while developing smaller concept stores – such as Westfield Bondi Junction, Westfield Chatswood and Westfield Sydney – with a view to a rollout of this new concept over the 2012 year. We are also examining opportunities for the development of concession shop-in-shop locations similar to those opened by Aldo International in Northern America,” he said.
“The Australian market has been accepting of the changes we have made in our buying and store design strategy, which will allow the brand to expand its retail footprint. Our sales have also stabilised in the current environment, and we are now looking to our future buying strategy to achieve sales growth.”
Aldo, which also sells accessories as part of its range, will also boost its product offering further with the addition of branded nail lacquer this month.
“This month [October] Aldo will be launching nail polish in Australian stores for the first time,” Nankervis said. “The collection includes nine unique shades, with all colours exclusive to Aldo.”
Daniela Aroche