YORK shoe retailer Pavers has expanded with the opening of its 100th store.

Founded in York in 1971 by Cathie Paver, the business has opened milestone shop in the London Designer Outlet.

The growth of the family firm’s UK empire coincides with expansion overseas.

Last year Pavers became become the first foreign single-brand retailer to be allowed to set up wholly owned stores in India.

Pavers, based at Northminster Business Park at Upper Poppleton, started selling its shoes in India in April 2008 when it set up a joint venture called Pavers England with London-based Indian entrepreneur Ravi Mehotra’s billion-dollar Foresight Group.

Pavers England put a multimillion-pound investment proposal to the Indian government, which was been approved after six months’ deliberation.

The York business beat huge companies like Ikea, American clothing business Brook Brothers and watchmaker Fossil to cement the world first after the Indian government decided to ease its restrictions on foreign direct investment, which banned foreign retailers from owning more than 51 per cent of their shops.

Pavers also launched the world’s first 24-hour TV footwear shopping channel.

To celebrate the opening of its 100th UK store Pavers has pledged donation to 100 UK charities.

All Pavers stores across the UK have been asked to nominate a charity of their personal choice, in their operational area to receive a £100 donation.

Pavers Shoes at York has nominated Autism Plus, York Outlet at York Designer Outlet has nominated the Alzheimer’s Society and Bellissimo has nominated St Leonards Hospice as their chosen charities.