BOOT TRADE BOOM.

Waikato Times, Volume 103, Issue 17367, 31 March 1928, Page 4

BOOT TRADE BOOM.

OVERTIME IN FACTORIES. There is a boom in the boot trade at- Northampton, says an English paper. At most of the factories full time is being worked, and in several of them overtime. Consequently tradesmen arc thriving, building societies report record 'business, and there is a general atmosphere of activity and contentment in striking contrast to the conditions .12 months ago, when there were quite f>o per cent more unemployed in the trade. The revival is due to the appreciation of the values of leather during the past few months. In anticipation of this manufacturers, especially multiple firms and larger factors, have built up large stocks of footwear to cover their season's requirements so as not unduly to rase the retail prices. An additional factor is that Northampton. hitherto the home chiefly of men’s footwear, lias, during the past few years, been steadily building up Inulc* in the highest grade women’s 'boots and shoes, which now comprise at least 25 per cent of the total output there. There is, in addilion, a demand for Northampton footwear among welldressed Americans. Several firms now do a considerable business wit'll the United States. The committee appointed under the Merchandise Marks Act recommends that all imported bools, shoes, and slippers, except those mainly made of rubber, ’ should bear an indication of the place of origin when they arc sold. It is suggested that this should be done by a conspicuous stamp or impress on Hio outer sole, and where that is impracticable by a label securely fastened to the sole.