WELCOME TO MARK LEMP FOOTWEAR

The comfort shoe trend couldn't have come at a better time for Mark Lemp Footwear. Now in its 20th year, the size and width company is experiencing a renaissance with its new Cashmere Construction from Ros Hommerson, her fashion line Red Collection, and its casual brands Walking Cradles and Elites. In fact, the company has recently added several e-commerce accounts and has seen a boost in sales of 20 percent for the year.

In 1991, Mark Lemp, Sr., the founder -- along with Ros Hommerson -- developed the Ros Hommerson® brand. In the last decade, Lemp and his team have worked to bring the business forward. They have become innovators in comfort and style. They work directly with their customers gathering information on what their retail customers demand -- a quality product that is fashionable, comfortable, and the right price. "We fit the bill," adds Lemp.

Over the years, the company has changed with the times, adding more upscale products and casual patterns in an effort to stay current and relevant in this ever-changing business. Purchased in 1995 by Jack Mosinger, CEO/CFO, and Mark Lemp, Jr., President, things began to pick up steam around the new millennium. "We offer our footwear in 74 sizes and widths. Plus, they are fashionable, comfortable and they fit," explained Mark Lemp, Jr. In 2000, John Faulhaber was added to the team. Mark Lemp, Jr., saw his potential and moved him into the office as Vice President of Sales and Marketing. They solidified the importance of their in-stock program with the addition of Dave Katz, Director of Merchandise. The company flourished under the new management team as they set their sights on $30,000,000 plus sales.

"No matter how popular the brands become, Mark Lemp Footwear is still a family company in terms of friendship with our customers and employees. We want people to know that we are a company with integrity. Our goal is to earn the respect of everyone around us – we deliver news, good or bad, straightforwardly," adds Lemp, Jr.

Their first customer was Arizona Mail Order back in 1991. Mark Lemp, Jr., adds, "They took a chance with us and we have not forgotten that. Our catalog customers, including Mason, helped the company grow early on and continue to do so today." Other retailers have caught on to Mark Lemp Footwear, including e-commerce customers Zappos, Amazon, and Shoes.com to name just a few. Von Maur Department Store and countless independent customers carry their brands. The Ros Hommerson and Walking Cradle brands are also well known in Canada and the United Kingdom.

"From a retailer's point of view, fit, comfort, and style are most important along with a strong in-stock program, and if you can hit all four, then you're going to be successful," said John Faulhaber. "Recently, we were mentioned in 'O' magazine under Where to get the best shoes. It read: Ros Hommerson offers a range of ankle boots in a versatile, neutral palette. Needless to say, we were all very happy with even a small recognition from Oprah Winfrey. "

Mark Lemp, Jr., added, "We are proud of our company and all of our achievements over the past 20 years and are thankful for our dedicated employees and loyal customers. That's what our company is all about. We look forward to our next 20 years with enthusiasm."