Mr. Sans, how does interest in Sabu Protect develop among the dealers? Have you reached all interested parties among the members or are you also added to new target groups?
Thomas Sans: The number of dealers grows continuously, the interest is constantly there. Many dealers wanted to wait and see how such a new concept develops. But the fact that it works so well with the concept participants in turn arouses interest in others.
How can your members start selling safety shoes?
In general, participation in the overall concept Sabu Protect is desired so that the dealers also get the appropriate advice and are accompanied by the first step. The dealers have now also recognized that it is a factor if they have someone who is familiar with this area and which they can contact at any time. It has little to do with “selling normal shoes” when it comes to standards and various classifications.
Where does the success come from with safety shoes and why does it come right now?
I think it makes a difference that I can look after the dealers after I have made sales for almost 20 years. I went through phases myself in which I had to work out every product sold. I had to question what I have to improve to find hearing. So I can put myself in the situation. Generally speaking, you simply notice that it is fun for the dealers to deal with it and to see a division grow. The topic is not in competition with the existing range, but is added on top.
The market may not have been recognized so before. But the end customers want to contact a person who is familiar with their questions and not just in the specialist market. Safety shoes are also relevant for many more people because security requirements are becoming increasingly comprehensive. The fact that the potential is now seen is also evident from how much the manufacturers have recently invested in sports sponsorship. At the same time, the claim of the end consumers increases. Actually, every safety shoe should be as comfortable as a sneaker.
Which manufacturers take part in Sabu Protect?
We started with Uvex, Atlas, Baak and Elten. Now we were able to win another manufacturer for our portfolio with U-Power and we are in conversations with other brands. The companies all have their focus and at the joint stand at the fair, everyone grants the shoe sold to the other. This is also an inspiring aspect on the subject.
