Len Goodman, an influential figure in the footwear industry, has passed away at the age of 93.
- He founded London Lane Shoes in the 1960s, contributing significantly to UK shoe manufacturing.
- Goodman collaborated extensively with prominent retailers, including the British Shoe Corporation.
- His nephew, Daniel Rubin, speaks to his exceptional leadership and mentorship.
- The business closed in 1988 due to shifting manufacturing trends and global competition.
Len Goodman, a pivotal name in the world of footwear, passed away on July 23 at the age of 93. Throughout his life, Goodman was instrumental in shaping the landscape of the footwear manufacturing industry in the United Kingdom, notably through the establishment of London Lane Shoes in the 1960s. His keen insight and innovation enabled the production of women’s fashion shoes in Dalston, a central hub for UK shoe manufacturing at the time.
Goodman’s contributions were marked by his collaboration with key industry players, most notably the British Shoe Corporation, the leading footwear retailer with over 2,500 stores across the country. This partnership significantly boosted the reach and impact of London Lane Shoes, cementing Goodman’s reputation within the industry.
In a strategic business move, Goodman initially sold his company to Clarks, which integrated it into an unbranded manufacturing division. However, following the division’s closure in 1972, Goodman reclaimed ownership of his business, demonstrating his commitment and vision for the company.
His nephew, Daniel Rubin, now a prominent figure in the footwear sector as the founder and chairman of The Dune Group, worked alongside Goodman for a decade starting in 1976. Reflecting on Goodman’s legacy, Rubin remarked, “Len was a talented manufacturer with an outstanding knowledge of footwear production. He was often found in the factory adapting a machine for some special process. This was his passion and gave London Lane Shoes a unique style and quality.”
Rubin further emphasized Goodman’s influence as a mentor who instilled the values of integrity, hard work, and a passion for the product. Such qualities not only defined Goodman’s managerial approach but also had a lasting impact on those who worked with him and learned under his guidance.
The decision to close London Lane Shoes in 1988 was a response to the broader shifts in the manufacturing sector, where production increasingly moved to the East, rendering UK operations economically unviable. Despite the closure, Goodman’s legacy continues to be celebrated by family, friends, and industry peers alike.
Len Goodman leaves behind a lasting legacy in the footwear industry, marked by innovation and leadership.
