INDX National Kids Footwear Show | Show Report January 2025

The children's footwear industry descended on Cranmore Park at the end of January, for the launch edition of the INDX National Kids Footwear Show.

Running alongside the established INDX National Kidswear Show, retailers from across the UK and Ireland enjoyed an unmissable 2 day event, with stockists flocking to the first trade show dedicated to the children’s footwear sector.

From baby’s first steps to toddler treads and kids kicks, this debut footwear event showcased big styles for tiny toes, through to back-to-school shoes, trainer trends, and customisable casuals.

The show’s opening roster of exhibitors included such top industry names as Clarks, Start Rite, Lelli Kelly, Young Soles, Bobux, Dubs, Sole Purpose, Zig + Star, Superfit, TT Kids, and XTI to name but a few.

Sam Chetwood, founder and franchisor, CeCe & Me (a network of skilled shoe fitters):   

Now INDX has introduced a dedicated kids’ footwear section, attending was really a no-brainer. It’s been some time since we've seen children's footwear brands brought together on this scale.

It makes such a difference to see them alongside each other, as well as being a huge timesaving. It's also a brilliant opportunity to meet brands we don't currently stock and to catch up with other retailers.  

Ali McAleavy, founder of ZIG+STAR:  

It was so great to be part of a fair that focused on kids’ footwear specifically, and meeting retailers who really understand the importance of foot health for children. Plus, being in the UK, it's a brilliant way for UK businesses to support each other. 

It was great to connect with both existing and new customers as well as other brands, but it was about so much more than wholesale. We discussed how to support each other and promote both in-store fitting and the UK footwear industry generally. It was such a great event, we're already looking forward to next time. 

Stu Anderson, CEO Young Soles:  

The children’s shoe industry has been crying out for years for a dedicated show or area. It was great to be in a room with all the best children’s brands, making it easier for buyers to browse and spend time with exhibitors.  

We found the show to be a success, and we will certainly be coming again. It is great to support the British footwear industry, and we hope that the brands and retailers continue to do so. 

Cranmore Park’s new hospitality space, ‘The Loft’, played host to the show’s networking social event, providing a relaxed environment for buyers and exhibitors to unwind and connect, with live music, drinks, and canapés.

James Crabtree, Head of Fashion, AIS:

It was great to welcome a different crowd of retailers and suppliers to Cranmore Park, and we had an extremely positive response from the kid’s footwear community.

We’ve been looking at introducing the children’s footwear category to the INDX portfolio for a while and, with collaboration from key players within the kid’s footwear industry, finally the timing was right.

The launch show was a huge success, and we look forward to doing it all again in June!

The INDX National Kids Footwear Show will be back at Cranmore Park from 29-30 June 2025 and visitor registration can be completed online: https://indxshows.co.uk/shows/national-kids-footwear-show