Stead & Simpson hopes refit will tempt buyers

The new Stead and Simpson format will focus more on branded footwear

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Stead & Simpson has unveiled a new concept for its 230-store chain in the same week as bids were due in for the company.

The footwear giant, which was put up for sale just before Christmas, has drafted in agency Caulder Moore to design the format, which it hopes will  tempt potential buyers of the business.

The new look will be unveiled in February at the store in Oakham, Leicestershire. It aims to attract a wider customer base and features purple and orange branding, with more emphasis on branded merchandise.

However, as Drapers went to press it looked increasingly unlikely that Stead & Simpson would secure a buyer for the entire business, prompting concerns about the company's long-term health.

Stylo chief executive Michael Ziff, who was linked to a deal, said he had looked at the company but would not be buying any part of it.
Stead & Simpson has made big attempts to turn itself around since it was refinanced to the tune of £30 million last year, but trading has remained tough.