UK shoe brand Clarks opens second Paris store as part of France expansion

Iconic British shoe brand Clarks is looking to expand into the French market, opening several stores before the end of 2026 in the country. 

The chain recently opened its second store in Paris, and is planning three more across France before the end of the year. 

Alongside the new store on Boulevard de la Madeleine, situated in one of Paris’ most prominent shopping neighbourhoods, and the flagship store in the 6th arrondissement, the brand also has stands at department stores in the country.

It comes alongside new stores slated to open in Belgium, Italy, and Spain, as well as additional stores in the UK heartlands. 

The heritage shoewear brand is looking to capitalise on a strong 2025 – where it recorded profits of over £66 million and cleared debts after two years of operating losses – and is also expanding its structure to include franchises, e-commerce sites, and wholesale distribution. 

The return to success was good news for the company on its 200th anniversary – it was originally founded in Somerset in 1825 by brothers James and Cyrus.

Alongside a series of iconic shoes, the brand has recently expanded into the wider fashion sector with clothing releases.

One thing for parents to note – unlike in the UK, French shops rarely measure children’s feet unless they are specialist boutiques, in which case they will have a pédimètre. Most high-street retailers and chains will not provide this service.

‘France central to European plans’

“The opening of our new store… is an important moment for Clarks in France and a clear demonstration of our confidence in the market,” said UK and Europe president of the brand Joe Ulloa, quoted in outlet The Industry: Fashion. 

“Paris is one of the world’s most influential retail and fashion destinations, and this new location gives us an excellent platform from which to introduce more customers [to the brand],” he added. 

“This is our second store in Paris, but it is only one part of our ambition for France… We are building a stronger retail network while also expanding through wholesale and other channels.” 

“France is central to our wider European growth plans, and we see significant potential to build a larger, more relevant and more accessible Clarks business here.” 

Clarks will jostle with dozens of iconic brands in the sector, which is backed by a heritage in haute couture and fashion spanning centuries.