Dr. Martens to upgrade Northampton factory, build visitor centre

By

Barbara Santamaria

Published
Feb 27, 2019

Dr. Martens will invest £2 million in its UK factory and build a visitor and heritage centre after seeing continued success with its Made in England range.

The investment will double capacity at the shoemaker’s Northampton facilities, which has been producing Dr. Martens boots since it opened in 1901. The brand said the upgrade will help it produce up to 165,000 pairs a year, as well as underline its commitment to uphold its English roots. Although the brand now produces most of its shoes abroad, the factory still makes about 70,000 shoes a year.

The site’s heritage and connection to Northampton will be further highlighted in a new visitor and heritage centre that is expected to open in spring 2020.

"This investment demonstrates our ongoing commitment to Northampton and to upholding Dr. Martens’ distinguished brand heritage,” said Kenny Wilson, CEO.

“We are really proud of our history and of our roots in Northampton – the city has played a huge role in the growth of our brand and we want people to be able to experience this. Today’s investment also highlights the success of our Made in England range and its continued popularity with our customers. We can’t wait to open our new visitor centre and welcome Dr. Martens fans, both new and old, through our doors."

Targeting fans and tourists, the new visitor and heritage centre will offer a factory tour and include a store selling product handmade in Northampton, as well as an experience centre displaying memorabilia.