W.j.french & Son Limited

W.J. French & Son Limited is a small, active company with a rich history, having been founded 70 years ago in 1954. Based in Southampton, it operates from a real address and employs 19 people, holding assets totaling £845,509. The company, which has three directors and one owner, runs an e-commerce site and boasts a stellar 5.0 Google rating from 135 reviews. It’s a regular importer, specializing in footwear and related items, with 13 months of import activity recorded.

The company's website paints a picture of a traditional, family-run shoe shop with a modern online presence. It offers a wide selection of ladies', men's, and children's shoes, alongside shoe repair services. The site highlights brands like Mephisto, Ecco, and Waldlaufer, catering to a diverse range of tastes and needs. It also offers a range of services including shoe fitting, repairs, and even disaster recovery for damaged pianos, hinting at a broader expertise beyond retail.

Financially, W.J. French & Son Limited’s recent performance shows some interesting trends. Cash reserves decreased by a significant 46%, falling to £150,000, while bank borrowings increased substantially, reaching £29,000. Trade debtors also declined, dropping by 32%, which could indicate tighter credit control or delayed payments. On the positive side, creditors decreased by 21%, suggesting improved management of short-term liabilities. The company’s small size—meeting two of three criteria for a small company—helps maintain agility, but the decrease in cash and increase in borrowing warrants closer attention. The unaudited financial statements, as is typical for small companies, rely on director-reported data.

Despite these challenges, W.J. French & Son Limited’s long history and positive customer reviews suggest a resilient business. Its blend of traditional retail and modern e-commerce, combined with its expertise in shoe repair and broader services, positions it well for continued success, though a closer eye on cash flow would be beneficial.

Registered in England/Wales under the registration number 00540004, with a registered address at SO15 2DG, 40 Bedford Place, Southampton.

WARNING:The numbers have been rounded for simplicity and may be inaccurate.Please, refer to the latest financial report for verification.