Many of our regular in-store customers have come to know Liz, our Shop Manager & Fitting Expert, over the years. At the end of March, we will be bidding Liz farewell as she leaves us for a well-deserved retirement. Having worked at Cosyfeet for 27 years, the shop and company won’t be the same without her.
How has Cosyfeet changed since you first joined the company? It must have been very different to how it is now!
The range of footwear was much smaller and definitely more for the elderly less active customer. There was a very small range of socks and hosiery, only about half a dozen choices there. The shop was tiny and we didn't have a computerised system in it, so all the customer information was written down.
What has been the biggest change you've seen during your time with Cosyfeet?
The biggest changes have been gradual, it's the fact that the range is so much bigger and now includes walking boots and trainers. Our customers are much more active these days and are certainly very different from 25 years ago, they expect more out of life and want the footwear to fit with their lifestyle.
Tell us your fondest or most unforgettable moment?
Lots of lovely memories of wonderful customers. Hearing their amazing life stories and how they met during the war. We have had some situations with people coming in with nothing on their feet, or shoes that have been cut and held together with string, so it's always amazing when they find something that fits. We used to have a customer who would come in with her assistance dog, and seeing how he helped her to stand and brought her purse up to the counter was just incredible.
What will you miss most about Cosyfeet?
I will miss our customers, my amazing shop team, and all my lovely colleagues within the business. They have been like a second family to me, we've shared lots of ups and downs in our lives and we will be friends for life.
What are you most looking forward to during your retirement?
With five grandchildren life will be busy! I love spending time with my family and friends. We enjoy travelling so hope to continue with that. I have a long list of interests including gardening, wildlife, photography and art so I hope to have more time to do the things I enjoy. Not forgetting spending more time with my husband and our Patterdale Terrier, Rufus.
