Len Goodman, the founder of London Lane Shoes, has passed away at the age of 93, leaving behind a significant legacy in the footwear industry.
- Goodman established London Lane Shoes in the 1960s, positioning it as a key player in women’s fashion shoe manufacturing in the UK.
- The company initially flourished, supplying major retailers like the British Shoe Corporation, before Goodman sold it to Clarks.
- After buying back the business in 1972, Goodman navigated challenges until its closure in 1988 when UK manufacturing faced global competition.
- Daniel Rubin, founder of The Dune Group and Goodman’s nephew, credits Goodman as an inspirational mentor who emphasised integrity and hard work.
Len Goodman, a distinguished figure in the footwear industry, passed away on 23 July at the age of 93. With a career spanning decades, Goodman significantly impacted shoe manufacturing and wholesale. He launched London Lane Shoes in the 1960s, setting up a factory in Dalston, London, which was a hub for UK shoe manufacturing during that period.
London Lane Shoes quickly became known for producing high-quality women’s fashion shoes and served prominent retailers, particularly the British Shoe Corporation, which had over 2,500 stores at the time. In an effort to expand, Goodman sold the company to Clarks, which established an unbranded manufacturing division. However, this division was eventually closed, leading Goodman to buy back his business in 1972.
Working closely with his team, Goodman was dedicated to maintaining the quality and uniqueness of London Lane Shoes. Daniel Rubin, Goodman’s nephew and a notable name in the footwear industry today as the founder of The Dune Group, worked with Goodman for a decade starting in 1976. He described Goodman as an ‘exceptional manager’ with a deep knowledge of footwear production.
Rubin noted, ‘Len was a talented manufacturer with an outstanding knowledge of footwear production. He was often found in the factory adapting a machine for some special process. This was his passion and gave London Lane Shoes a unique style and quality.’ Goodman was an inspirational mentor who instilled values of integrity, hard work, and a passion for the product, Rubin further added.
Despite his efforts, Goodman ultimately closed London Lane Shoes in 1988, as the production of unbranded fashion shoes moved overseas and the UK’s shoe manufacturing industry became less competitive. His passing marks the end of an era for those who knew him, as highlighted by Rubin’s heartfelt remarks.’Len will be greatly missed by his family and friends,’ Rubin stated.
Len Goodman’s life and career leave a lasting impact on the footwear industry, characterised by innovation and mentorship.
