You had to think about it. Brandon Mariadi did. At barely 24 years old, this young entrepreneur has just created the first sneaker cleaner in Lille. A pioneer in France in a very buoyant market.
Modest. Humble. So rather discreet, Brandon Mariadi, even if this young native of Hem (24 years old just celebrated in February) has a benevolent smile. At the same time, it is better not to spread out when you have perhaps found the right vein. A few weeks ago, in December, the entrepreneur opened BBB shop on rue Édouard-Delesalle. A shop entirely dedicated to the maintenance and washing of sneakers, the “city sneakers” as mothers say. “It’s a sneaker cleaner”, sums up Brandon (who also cleans suede, leather, canvas, heels, boots …).
“I had a lot of sneakers. And I was always asked how I kept my shoes clean. ”
If there is demand? Potentially yes. The figures for the French sneaker market speak for themselves: in two years, from 2013 to 2015, according to a study carried out by an internet price comparison site (Idealo), demand had increased by 417%. A little over a year ago, it was estimated that one in three pairs of shoes sold in France was a pair of sneakers. But not an address to maintain them.
“After school and soccer (he once dreamed of a professional career before back problems decided otherwise), I traveled to learn about different cultures…” says Brandon. Nurture his projects too before deciding on his “dry cleaning”. “I had a lot of sneakers. And I was always asked how I kept my shoes clean. I’m a bit of a freak … “The idea for BBB shop was born.
BBB
Since its opening, more than 500 pairs have passed through its hands. Some of fellow rappers or pro footballers with whom he has kept in touch. His secret? Don’t count on him to reveal it. Behind the counter of his shop, we find professional products unearthed abroad, small house mixes and a lot of elbow grease.
Sure, if you take a look in your closets today, you won’t look the same at that old, tired pair of shoes you’ve been struggling to part with for ages …
How much does it cost ?
Count from 10 to 20 € a pair of shoes and two days deposit (less if you pay a supplement of 5 to 10 €). BBB shop also does alterations and customization. At 45, rue É.-Delesalle. On Facebook: BBBshoplille
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