THE expansion of York-based shoe retailer Pavers is continuing apace with the appointment of three new area managers across the country.

Director of sales Jason Paver said the number of stores had recently grown from 115 to 130 throughout the UK and Ireland -partly due to the acquisition of a number of former Brantano store locations.

He said it aimed to increase this to between 200 and 250 in the near future, and the growth meant it needed to increase its area management team, so it could manage and support its current portfolio of stores as well as developing new opportunities.

Founded as a family business in York in 1971 by Catherine Paver, who took out a £200 bank loan to develop the firm, he said Pavers was now one of the UK’s leading comfort shoe retailers, with a focus on quality, affordability, and style.

“This is a really exciting time for Pavers,” he said. “Our store portfolio is continuing to grow - this year we have already opened shops in 18 new locations and a number of additional locations are being considered.

“Our aim is to grow the business to around 200 to 250 stores in the near future. The appointment of the three new area managers will help us to achieve these plans.”

A spokeswoman said Caroline Shaw had been appointed as the area manager for the South West, Darren Hanna the area manager for Scotland and North of England,and Samara Williams the South East.

“Both the new South East and South West appointments have been made internally with Miss Williams formerly managing the company’s Gretna store and Mrs Shaw previously managing its Cornwall and Plymouth sites,” she said. “Mr Hanna joins Pavers from Simply Be, having previously worked for H&M.”

Mr Paver said: “We’re delighted to have promoted Samara and Caroline from within Pavers, and are thrilled to welcome Darren, who we know will be a great addition to the team. We’re sure they will all flourish in their new roles and are looking forward to them putting their best foot forward.”