Babybotte

Babybotte is a children's footwear brand founded in Pau, France, in 1936, specialising in shoes for babies and toddlers learning to walk. Today the brand's handmade shoes are produced by Franco Romagnoli & C in Morrovalle, Italy.

What is Babybotte?

Babybotte is a children's shoe brand with a history dating back to 1936, when it was founded by the Bidegain family in Pau, in south west France. It built its reputation on shoes for the first steps and for young children learning to walk.

History

In 2004 Babybotte was acquired by the Noel group. In the 2010s it broadened its offer with ranges such as 4 pattes, Bébé debout, Premiers pas and Intrépides for preschool children, and produced a small line in the colours of the Biarritz Olympique rugby club. The brand is now operated by Franco Romagnoli & C srl, a shoemaker in Morrovalle in Italy's Marche region.

Products and positioning

Babybotte makes handmade shoes for girls and boys, balancing style and function. Ranges cover baby sizes, first steps and older children, with some models recommended by podiatrists. The brand has historically been positioned towards the upper end of the children's shoe market.

Distribution

Babybotte has traditionally been sold through independent children's shoe shops, with around 600 points of sale in France reported in 2013. It now combines a retailer network, supported by a dedicated B2B portal, with online sales on its own website.

Why it matters

Babybotte illustrates the long life of heritage children's footwear brands and the cross border consolidation of European shoemaking.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Babybotte from?

Babybotte was founded in Pau, France, in 1936 and is now produced by Franco Romagnoli & C in Morrovalle, Italy.

What does Babybotte make?

Babybotte makes handmade shoes for babies and children, with a particular focus on first steps footwear.

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