Footwear empire takes huge step after global success

A globetrotting footwear brand has returned to its roots with a bricks and mortar store amid international and online success.

Aussie Soles company founder Craig Taplin has returned to his roots to open a new store in Eumundi, near his origins at the Eumundi Markets. Picture: Patrick Woods

A GLOBETROTTING footwear brand has returned to Eumundi with a bricks and mortar store amid international and online success.

Founder of Aussie Soles podiatrist-approved footwear, Craig Taplin, said the time was right to open a flagship, “concept store” as the first in a potential franchise.

Mr Taplin said the business in the old bank building on Memorial Drive marked a return to his roots as it was located opposite the Eumundi Markets where he first got his start as a vendor more than 15 years ago.

Aussie Soles has taken up residence in the old bank building on Memorial Drive, Eumundi. Picture: Patrick Woods

“Since humble beginnings in this market town, we’re now in retailers all across Australia, New Zealand and are currently launching into the UK and America,” Mr Taplin said.

Mr Taplin said over the years he had worked hard to ensure Aussie Soles’ orthotic thong sand sandals provided relief from a range of foot-related aches and pains, with support from podiatrists.

“The material moulds to foot, rebounds with every step,” Mr Taplin said.

“Every pair becomes uniquely like your best mate.”

Mr Taplin said Aussie Soles thongs and footwear were currently stocked on racks in about 550 stores, predominantly pharmacies and souvenir shops.

The national and international success comes amid a mounting online presence with products for sale on Amazon and Maceys.com.

Aussie Soles will take up permanent residence in Eumundi with a new store set to open on Saturday. Picture: Patrick Woods

But Mr Taplin said the “traditional way would always be relevant”.

The bright-teal building, giant-thong facade and prominent position will make Aussie Soles hard to miss when doors open today.

Since Mr Taplin and his family moved back to the area, he said they had been busy pulling stock from two 40-foot containers, to be divvied up between the store and the US market.

Mr Taplin said the store would carry a full line of footwear, a fitting area and Bondi Beach-themed “selfie-wall”.

Mr Taplin said Aussie Soles’ goal was to support the consumer, but also the global community through its “buy one, give one” program.

To date, they have donated 180,000 pairs of footwear to people in need in Australia and Africa, with a target to give away 150,000 each year.

Aussie Soles recently supported Australia’s bushfire appeal.

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