spring / summer 2026

the art of retailing: know your customer, know your product, and keep your sense of humour!

Sarah Taylor, owner of shoes at last…

“Since opening as a men’s and women’s footwear store in 2003, our business has evolved, and by 2025, 95% of our sales come from women’s clothing. As footwear has become more casual and less central to customers’ wardrobes, we must diversify to remain relevant and succeed in a constantly changing market.”

Sarah Taylor began her retail career over 40 years ago with a leading fashion company for tall women. She became London store manager, where she and her team combined strong product knowledge with excellent customer relationships. After exceeding sales targets, she moved into a new role in the 1990s as stores coordinator, overseeing 29 UK shops and opening 22 of them. She later moved into marketing, organising catalogues, photo shoots and website content.

This wealth of fashion retail experience gave Sarah the confidence to start her own business.

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shoes at last launched in 2003 with stylish footwear at its heart. Since then, its clothing collection has grown just as popular, offering customers beautifully made fashion and shoes from the UK, Europe, New Zealand and the US. With its welcoming, relaxed atmosphere, the shop is a great destination for those who value style, comfort and good value.

Community Connections

shoes at last is part of the thriving community on Maple Road in Surbiton, a street known for its independent businesses, including hairdressers, a beauty room, a dentist, bars and restaurants.

Sarah has also played an active role in local life:

• In 2009, she and fellow volunteers founded the award-winning Surbiton Farmers’ Market, held on Maple Road on the third Saturday of each month to raise money for local charities.
• The Good Life newspaper, launched by editor Tim Harrison in 2011, reports the news and views of this vibrant, friendly and supportive community.

shoes at last Ltd:  Company No 4610265