News and event information for Williams Lake, BC - as it happens.

By LeRae Haynes                                                                         

Susan and Dan Colgate have been the owners of Bob’s Shoes and Repairs for almost a year, and have recently expanded and renovated the store to increase the retail area. Store Manager Marg Elliott said that the move shows great belief in the future of this family-based business, and in the community as a whole. 

“I’ve done retail in Williams Lake for many years and know that it’s important for our business community to stay positive. What good does it do to complain to customers about the economy and whine to them about the lack of sales?” she continued. “I think it shows a strong belief in the community when a business expands and improves—especially right now.” 

(Photo: Bob’s Shoes and Repairs is a true family business that has recently expanded its retail area in preparation for new items destined to delight customers. Pictured here are Susan and Dan Colgate, Susan’s parents Mervin and Dorothy Deausy, Marg Elliott, Store Manager, Carson, 10, Rylan, 8, and Mason 9 months.)

On Boxing Day Dan and Susan Colgate put their optimism into action, strapped on their tools belts, and started the expansion. By January 10, it was done. “We never missed a day---the store was open the whole time,” Marg said. “There is no ‘doom and gloom’ here: it’s fun and refreshing. Come and check out our sales, our service and our new retail area.” 

The reason for the sales floor expansion is the new clothing and footwear that are on the way. “The new Carhartt items coming out are young, fun and exciting---the clothing is still durable and exceptional quality, but it’s not all ‘work, work, work’ anymore,” she explained. “For example, young women can enjoy their clothing when they get dressed to go to work.” 

Some of the new items that customers can look forward are Harley Davidson boots for men and women and Carhartt for kids. The new kids’ clothing will include ‘skorts’ for little girls, ‘onesies’ and denim diaper covers for babies, as well as Tshirts with cute sayings. “The whole line has changed, expanded and improved, and the prices have been lowered,” she continued. 

One footwear favourite at Bob’s is Bogs, according to Marg, who described them as ‘amazing gum boots that feel like a slipper and are good to 40 below.’ “They have a neoprene ‘sock’ inside, have no seams and never leak and come in all sizes, designs and heights for men, women and children.” 

She said that Blundstone boots are another reason that customers love Bob’s. “When I put my first pair of Blundstones on for a day, I threw my running shoes away by dinner time,” she said. “They breathe, they’re straight leather, they’re water proof and have real rubber soles: it’s like wearing your slippers every day to work.” 

Bob’s Shoes has a long history of exceptional service to the community, including shoe repair. Boots and shoes are expertly re-glued, stretched, re-soled and rejuvenated. The professional staff will design orthopedic lifts, stretch shoes for a better fit, replace tips on high heels and eyelets on work boots, and bring an old favourite pair of cowboy boots back to life. 

For more information, visit the store at 248 Borland Street, phone 250-393-7463 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

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