Shoes for the Soul finds a new home

A longstanding Nelson footwear retailer gets more leg room

Shoes for the Soul gets festive as it celebrates its new location — Colin Payne photo

A longstanding Nelson footwear retailer will be moving to a new location later this summer, as Shoes for the Soul moves into the premises formerly occupied by Lyons Footwear.

Deanna and Ian Franklin have owned Shoes for the Soul, next to ROAM on Baker Street, for 13 years. They have needed a new location for some time now, Deanna said, but a couple of opportunies didn't pan out.

Several years ago they were offered a building by a retiring businessman but that location didn’t quite fit. Then they were offered the opportunity to buy Lyons a year ago but the timing wasn’t right due to the arrival of a new baby.

“The timing just lined up,” said Deanna, noting they didn’t buy the business, just the building. “So it was a win-win when the timing came. Our spot is very small. We’ve needed a bigger space for some time.”

Deanna said they plan to renovate the building over the summer with hopes to move in by August 16.

The renovations include business rental space in the basement, which the Franklins will be renting out to Deanna's sister, who plans to open a clothing store.

Shoes for the Soul will continue selling casual and dress footwear for women as they have for 13 years, and will also pick up the brands previously sold by Lyons.

“We’ll be expanding into a bit older market and also a bit younger to complement the clothing store in the basement,” Deanna noted.