Merchant 1948

About Merchant 1948?

With a lineage spanning three generations, Merchant 1948 has established itself as a household name and a trusted source for premium leather footwear for various occasions. The company was founded on a deep respect for quality leather and the art of shoemaking.

As the brand has expanded, its vision has remained consistent: to provide well-crafted, modern footwear to the people of New Zealand. The footwear offered by Merchant 1948 is designed for modern living, representing a smart blend of form, function, and fashion. Heritage plays a central role in the brand's identity; each piece of footwear is meticulously crafted to meet the needs of its wearers.

Craftsmanship
Merchant 1948 collaborates with suppliers, factories, and craftsmen worldwide to develop a carefully curated, well-considered range of products. These partnerships allow the company to realize its vision, staying updated on the latest trends in style, materials, and fit.

Experience
Merchant 1948 believes the term "store" doesn't fully encapsulate the experience they offer. Upon entering a Merchant 1948 location, visitors are not merely shopping but rather experiencing the warm and caring nature of knowledgeable teams. Expertise in footwear fitting is a given, and interactions go beyond transactions; the staff is interested in hearing customers' stories and sharing their own. The ultimate goal is to offer a transformative footwear experience.

Heritage
Footwear runs in the family for Merchant 1948. The founder, Shane Anselmi, inherited a lineage of footwear merchants dating back to 1948 when his grandfather Guiglielmo, an Italian immigrant, opened shoe stores in New Zealand’s King Country. Shane's father, Tony, subsequently took over the business, expanding it due to his passion and strong work ethic. This drive was passed down to Shane, who went on to create Overland, a brand that has earned trust and affection from many.

A few years ago, the brand evolved to reflect its rich history, adopting the name Merchant 1948 and updating its look. This rebranding marks a new era for the company, with a focus on innovation and progress.

For those interested in learning more, Merchant 1948 invites inquiries and engagement.