Olles Shoemaker – 1981
Founded in 1981 by Olle Nilsson, Olles Skomakeri & Son is Lund's oldest shoemaker. Bengt, Olle's son, joined the business five years after its founding and now manages the shop independently. The store's unchanged location exudes a sense of history, with walls adorned by shoes from the 19th century, antique lasts, and paintings, all showcasing the rich tradition of the establishment.
Bengt started collaboration with Hammargruppen over three decades ago, eventually becoming one of the four pioneering shoemakers who introduced Crockett & Jones to the Swedish market about ten years later. For Bengt, advocating for Crockett & Jones shoes comes effortlessly. His rationale is straightforward: he only sells products he wholeheartedly believes in. As he succinctly puts it, "If I'm going to sell something it needs to be something I can stand up for and be proud of."
Behind the desk you can see some of the machines Bengt is using to repair the shoes, but the actual workshop is not visible unless you walk down a steep wooden stairs at the back of the shop.
Bengt's passion for his craft extends beyond shoe repairs to encompass saddle works and more. Despite the breadth of his skills, Bengt advocates for simplicity: "After wearing your shoes, simply insert a pair of shoe trees and wipe them clean." This straightforward yet effective advice resonates with anyone seeking to maintain the longevity and quality of their footwear.
Bengt's essential Crockett & Jones selection includes the timeless Connaughts. In his view, this model effortlessly balances classic style with a hint of casual elegance. Opting for Chestnut as the preferred color, Bengt underscores its versatility, suitable for various occasions ranging from weddings to parties and professional settings alike.
INFORMATION
Olles Skomakeri & Son
Södra Esplanaden 11
223 54 Lund