Rivoli Group introduces luxury footwear brand JM Weston to the UAE

The first JM Weston store at Dubai Festival City, was officially opened on 14 November by Mr. Christopher Descours, CEO of JM Weston and Mr. Ramesh Prabhakhar, Managing Partner of Rivoli Group. Also present was Mr. Lionel Aster, International Development Director, JM Weston.

Mr. Ramesh Prabhakhar, Managing Partner, The Rivoli Group, said:

"The market for luxury footwear in this region is relatively undeveloped. Based on extensive research of the retail market, we identified a need for a shoe brand with a rich heritage. We found that JM Weston mirrored the inherent values that are key to the Rivoli Group brand profile. It seamlessly integrates into our long term positioning of the Rivoli Group as the luxury lifestyle retailer."

Founded by Edouard Blanchard in 1891 in the Limoges Factory in France, the brand has today become the benchmark in luxury footwear for men. A creator of emblematic style in the image of the Loafer, J.M. Weston maintains a craft tradition; shoes are all handmade and its specific know-how offers a unique choice of several designs by renowned designer Michel Perry.

The J.M. Weston boutique is designed in the same architectural spirit as the flagship store located in the Champs Elysées, Paris. The sober and contemporary design, alternating wood, leather and aluminium, reproduces the cosy atmosphere of Parisian J.M. Weston shops.

The space covers over 600sq feet and is entirely dedicated to enhancing emblematic models, like the Golf or Moccasin, as well as the new contemporary styles from the Beaubourg, Savile, Aston, Conti or Supple Fit line, designed by Michel Perry. The warmly-coloured spacious environment places seats at the centre, enabling customers to breathe in the spirit of J.M. Weston collections.

Alongside the shoes, a full collection of small leather goods, created with as much care as the shoes, is available, with belts, wallets, card and document holders. A recently-launched line of briefcases and document carriers completes the display.

The elegant environment, mixing wood and contemporary materials, is a testament to J.M. Weston's traditional and modern spirit.

An exclusive and one of a kind trunk show follows from November 15 - 17, 2007 introducing the art of custom made shoes for the first time in the UAE. "Fait sur mesure" or made to measure is an established concept in Europe and a growing trend in the U.A.E. The exhibition will showcase an abundance of leathers, soles and colours, allowing consumers to design their own shoes, using J.M. Weston's in-house expertise.