Dr. Martens is set to launch its own repair service in the United Kingdom next month. This is currently a pilot program starting in Leeds, but the company’s CEO, Kenny Wilson, mentioned in an interview that the goal is to expand the service to the European mainland.
Wilson also noted that in the short term, the repair service might replace some of the demand, as people could opt for repairs instead of buying a new pair. However, he expects the positive long-term impact of the initiative to offset these losses.
“Could we potentially miss out on some revenue in the short term? Yes, but we’re thinking long-term and anticipate it will lead to customer loyalty,” he said in the interview.
For this initiative, Dr. Martens is collaborating with The Boot Repair Company.
To replace worn-out soles of a pair of boots—a relatively complex procedure that involves disassembling the entire boot—customers would pay £81 (equivalent to €94.30), according to Wilson.