Allen-Edmonds: Company Info

Elbert E. Allen founded the footwear company that bears his name in 1922 in the state of Wisconsin. A couple of years later, he added William Edmonds as a partner, and Allen-Edmonds was formed. Those who followed their work noted that the partnership worked out well, as Allen was an impossibly enthusiastic entrepreneur, while Edmonds was a tough salesman. Elbert's idea of ​​a dress shoe that was both stylish and comfortable went far.

In the 1930s, the men were joined by Elbert's sons. Ten years later, two younger sons added their skills to the fore by joining their father. During World War II, the government gave the company work as shoemakers for soldiers. In the 1950s, the economy boomed. Allen-Edmonds was popular with businessmen. The 1960s continued as before, but during the hippie decade, the US economy was in trouble. However, the company stayed afloat when many others collapsed because its customer base was loyal. Then, in the 1970s, the managers decided to focus on exports.

In the 1980s, a fire destroyed the company's original Wisconsin factory, and a new one was built. Despite the financial setback, the company's new boss, John Stollenwerk, led Allen-Edmonds to great growth in the 1990s. The company acquired Maine Shoe, founded Woodlore to produce cedar shoe trees, and opened its own stores around the United States. Much media attention and numerous awards followed, as productivity was at its peak.

The 2000s trend of manufacturing in Asia did not find support from AE's board of directors. They decided to invest in developing the American factory. Today, Allen-Edmonds still makes its footwear in the USA, and the range has expanded beyond classic models.