Grundy’s Shoes, a proud South Australian family-owned and operated business, is now in its 156th year, spanning 7 generations and counting. Grundy's is the oldest continuous Rundle Street trader and one of the oldest family businesses in South Australia. FBA's SA State Representative, Amanda Russell, spoke with the team at Grundy’s Shoes to learn more about the family business, their history and how they continue to evolve.
Setting in motion the establishment of the family business over 155 years ago, Thomas Judd emigrated as a 10 year old boy with his family from England aboard the sailing ship Taymouth Castle in 1855. In a twist of fate, Thomas tripped and broke his leg on the voyage, which was poorly set by the ship’s surgeon. Corrective shoes were not readily available in the fledging colony, so Thomas, with the help of his bootmaker uncle learnt how to make his own shoes. In 1868, Thomas opened The Star Boot Manufactory on East Terrace and in 1889, moved to larger premises on Rundle Street. Over the years the business evolved, with names you may remember, Judds, Barlows and Grundy’s.
The current owners, the Judd and Whittenbury families, bought the business in 1921. The families had owned shoe stores in Adelaide since 1868 and saw Grundy's Shoes as a chance to trade closer to the retail heart of the city. They retained the Grundy's name and, of course, it still remains today.
Grundy’s rich family history, wonderful loyal customers, quality comfort footwear and good old-fashioned customer service has spanned generations. The doors have remained open throughout two world wars and the Great Depression, with the only time the doors were shut in its 156 year history was due to the COVID lockdowns in 2020.
A respected footwear company, built on providing quality comfort footwear, Grundy’s is as passionate today as they were 156 years ago. Offering the world’s leading brands and styles, crafted from the best materials.
With South Australian locations in Rundle Street, Jetty Road Glenelg and Ocean Street Victor Harbor, Grundy’s are local, convenient and easy to access. Their online store offer the same range and convenience, reaching across Australia and New Zealand.
Nowhere in South Australia can you find the experience, range and service Grundy’s are so proud to provide.
What has been your greatest success?
Keeping to what we know and investing back into the business.
Plus importantly, throughout the years we have continued to ensure that it is standard practice for all family members (including senior leaders) to continue to work on the shop floor so we know our customer and can quickly adapt to market trends.
What do you value about FBA?
As a 7th generation family business, we know that we need to work hard, look after our customers, stay connected, support local and continue to evolve as a family business to ensure that Grundy’s is here for our future generations. We value that FBA puts a strong focus on bringing together and supporting family businesses across Australia.
What advice would you give to other family businesses?
Ensure your family business has strong values, work and operate towards these values, know your customer and value your customer.
Learn more about Grundy's Shoes
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