Clarks Originals has opened its first store in Kingston, Jamaica in a link with Kingston’s Signature Style, the family-owned business that has been selling the Clarks brand there for more than three decades.

Its longstanding Central Plaza location has been transformed to become the official home “to the full Clarks Originals experience”.

The two companies have remodelled it to mirror the Clarks Originals store aesthetic that can been seen in London, Tokyo, and Beijing. 

It features blonde timbers, inspired by the wooden lasts that help create Clarks shoes, plus a feature wall space “that talks to Clarks’ almost 200-year heritage”, and a specially designed feature piece of artwork from local artist Taj Francis that celebrates the connection between Clarks and Jamaica. 

The store offers the full Clarks Originals collection, exclusive product packs and brand collaborations.

It’s a key development for the brand with Clarks shoes having long been a staple in Jamaican culture.

“This store is a testament to the strong bond we share with the Jamaican community, and we look forward to continuing this journey together and building on our incredible shared history,” said Tara McRae, Clarks chief marketing and digital officer.

The brand is also working with Jamaican singer/songwriter Lila Iké and her charity, Blessings and Light Foundation, to offer support in the wake of the recent hurricane. It said it will use its new physical presence on the island “to look for continued ways to support schools, community groups and charities”.