Shoemaker: The Untold Story of the British Family Firm that Became a Global Brand

The book "Shoemaker" tells the story of Joe Foster's development of Reebok into one of the world's most famous sports brands, starting from a small factory in Bolton. It showcases the challenges and sacrifices that go into creating a world-beating brand and how a small local business can transform itself with the right products and vision.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 320 pages
\n Publication date: 10 June 2021
\n Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd
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The remarkable story of how Joe Foster transformed Reebok into one of the world's most famous sports brands is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering determination. Starting from a small factory in Bolton, England, the Foster family had been hand-making running shoes since the late 19th century, supplying athletes like Eric Liddell and Harold Abrahams, who were later immortalized in the film "Chariots of Fire." However, a family feud between Foster's father and uncle about the direction of their business led to Joe and his brother Jeff setting up a new company, inspired by the success of Adidas and Puma. Thus, Reebok was born.

At first, things were tough for Joe and his wife. They had to live in their rundown factory, and the machinery that made the shoes was placed around the edge of the floor, as it was too weak to collapse if positioned in the middle. Despite the challenging circumstances, Joe's marketing vision and passion for sports equipment drove him forward. By the 1980s, Reebok had become a global phenomenon, thanks to its early adoption of the aerobics craze inspired by Jane Fonda. The brand's iconic sneakers, such as the Reebok Alien Stompers, were seen on Hollywood red carpets and even in the film "Aliens," where Sigourney Weaver wore a pair.

"Shoemaker" is a powerful tale of triumph against all the odds, revealing the challenges and sacrifices that go into creating a world-beating brand. It follows Joe's journey from a small-town shoemaker to a global entrepreneur, showcasing his unwavering commitment to his vision. The book also delves into the story of how a small local business can transform itself with the right products and vision into something much bigger. It provides valuable insights into the sports equipment industry, marketing, and entrepreneurship, inspiring readers to pursue their dreams and create their own success stories.

In conclusion, the story of Joe Foster and Reebok is a remarkable testament to the power of determination, innovation, and a clear vision. It reminds us that with the right products and the right mindset, anything is possible, and small businesses can become global giants. Joe Foster's journey is a source of inspiration for entrepreneurs and sports enthusiasts alike, and his legacy continues to shape the sports equipment industry.

\n Weight: 240g\n
Dimension: 131 x 197 x 24 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781471194047\n \n