Exclusive Footwear, based in York, has acquired Breeze Shoes

This acquisition expands the business, founded in 2005 by 38 year-old mum of two Frances Chalmers, to five outlets and will create three new jobs.

The takeover of Breeze shoes, which has been established for 23 years, is allowing Frances to set up in her hometown of Newcastle, as well as expand her business and create three news jobs.

The original Exclusive Footwear business sells designer footwear for men, women and children, in store and online from its base in Gillygate, York. Frances, pictured, opened a second store last year trading in quality shoes for children, including brands such as Lelli Kelly and Geox.

The company grew sales for 2009/10 by 47 per cent year on year and has won a number of business and fashion awards.

Breeze Shoes, which was founded by Paul Ward 23 years ago, will be re-branded over the forthcoming weeks to Exclusive Footwear – Newcastle.

Frances said: “I have been on the lookout for the right location for our next store since we launched the original store back in 2005.

“It’s taken this long to find the perfect spot.”

She added: “While our whole business model was founded on an e-commerce offering, we still believe that the combination of bricks and mortar with online is the winning method. This, combined with the strength of a retail outlet positioned off one of the most prestigious streets in Europe, is a winning combination.

“We are delighted to have this opportunity and look forward to taking our designer shoe collections to the people of Newcastle upon Tyne.”