Mucho Swiss Shoe News

I was reading an article that summarizes the footwear market in Switzerland and found this paragraph especially funny: (PS Don't ask why I was reading about the sneaker market...)

"All leather, Western boots, made in the U.S., are only a small niche product but they have an excellent reputation, especially among Swiss Country and Western fans. The boots are renowned for their design, durability and quality. Authentic U.S. "Cowboy Boots" are very appealing to Swiss customers, as they are considered to be the only "real thing" and are associated with the American Way of Life. In order to establish successful business relations with Swiss footwear importers, U.S. companies should remember that the Swiss market is small and that adjustments in minimum order requirements are therefore absolutely essential. Trade sources frequently mentioned that they are only interested in importing U.S. footwear if they are given the opportunity to order small quantities of individual items."

The Swiss are the Carrie Bradshaw's of the world, except they purchase for functionality:

"The average Swiss consumer bought 5.43 pairs of shoes last year. This puts the Swiss at top of the chart (worldwide, the average was 1.72 pairs per year). Despite this position, the average Swiss is not prepared to spend a lot of money on shoes, as those are still very often considered to be a necessity rather than a fashion statement."

And finally a bit of American shoe news - average price/pair for women's shoes in the US in 2004 is $35.02. Are you kidding me? I think this is silly low - seriously for every 1 pair of $100 shoes sold there are 5 pairs of $20 shoes sold in order to make this average. And for a $500 pair, you need to sell 50 pairs of $10 shoes. Walmart must sell a lot of shoes to make up for Milanos.