Jobs at risk at Norfolk shoe firm

The fate of more than a dozen jobs hangs in the balance as efforts continue to find a new owner for aNorfolk shoe firm that has called in administrators.

Riva Shoes, based at Attleborough, was put in the hands of admin-istrators a week ago after suffering a period of continuing financial uncertainty.

The company, which has been trading since 1997, has a warehouse in the town, and a range of footwear under the Riva brand is sold in shoe shops across the country.

Eight people from the warehouse have already lost their jobs, but the concessions within department stores at Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft, Beccles and Dereham are still trading.

Administrators McTear Williams & Wood are seeking buyers for the wholesale business and concessions.

Chris McKay, from the business rescue and insolvency services firm, said: “It is a shame that a business with such a solid reputation within the shoe industry has been brought to this point. But, judging by the interest received so far, we are hopeful that we will be able to attract a buyer for the Riva brand.”

Riva's directors have continued to market its shoes. Only last week its products were featured in an industry journal.

Eastern Daily Press
23 February 2010