Dr Martens on firm footing as sales soar 25%

Sales are stomping on at iconic boot maker Dr Martens despite challenging retail conditions, the company said on Monday.

Revenues at the brand — favoured by stars such Pharrell Williams and Gigi Hadid — rose 25% to £290.6 million in the year ending in March, while underlying profits rose 27% to £37.5 million.

Fashion-forward customers are also flocking online to buy its popular boots, such as the 1460 Black Smooth.

E-commerce rose 54% to £32.4 million, boosted by shoppers in Asia, which now accounts for almost a quarter of the brand’s revenues. America “continues to be tough”, although sales were still up by 13%.

The 57-year-old business was bought in 2013 for £300 million by the investment firm Permira, which has been behind brands including Hugo Boss.

The company has expanded significantly since then, opening 18 new stores this year alone. It launched a swanky new flagship store and European head office in Camden.

The retailer’s chief executive Steve Murray, who is widely credited for the rude health of the business, stepped down earlier this month after three years at the helm.