Chris is the Managing Director, founder and heartbeat of The Brogue Trader. He’s Cardiff born and bred, a proud Welshman and a real family man.
Through his hard work and determination, Chris has built a hugely successful career. He began working in the haulage industry and at one point had four jobs to support his young family. He eventually moved into the luxury car industry with a prestigious role of Dealer Principal for BMW.
The Beginning
Driven by his love of handmade English shoes (he owns over 200 pairs), Chris opened the first Brogue Trader store in the Morgan Arcade, Cardiff in 2013.
The business’ innovative approach to retail by mixing quality handmade brands with exceptional customer service was an immediate success. So much so it has seen us win numerous awards including the Footwear Industry ‘New Independent Footwear Retailer of the Year’ in 2015.
Expansion with Loake Shoemakers
Chris’ impressive retail vision led to an approach from Loake Shoemakers for the creation of a chain of new retail stores. Each one owned and run by Chris and his team with Loake supplying the shoes.
The first store as part of this exciting new partnership opened in Chester in 2015. We’ve since opened 7 more stores with Manchester being the 9th to open in the group in 2018.
Each store has its own personality but is driven by The Brogue Traders’ customer service and family ethos. Family is very important to Chris and his wife Jo, daughter Stacey and both sons Keiron and Daniel all play important roles within the business.
Local Community Partnerships
Deeply rooted within the success of the Brogue Trader are the partnerships Chris has built within the local community. All of our stores work hard on creating and maintaining these long-lasting relationships.
As an official supplier to the Welsh Rugby Union and Welsh Football Association, The Brogue Trader supply shoes to both National teams. Chris is also a proud Ambassador for Cardiff based charity The City Hospice and has helped raised thousands of pounds holding and hosting events.
Chris’ real passion is his family. But when he’s away from them and the business his heart is with his motorcycles. He enjoys touring the country and visiting the stores on his bike.
As a big Rugby Union fan, Chris is as much at home at the Principality Stadium supporting Wales. He recently travelled with the Cardiff Blues on a tour of South Africa.
Northern Soul is his music of choice and can be heard playing in many of the stores in the business.