How Stuart Davis started eco-friendly children's footwear brand Dubs
Tue Feb 03 2026
Lifelong friends, graphic designer Gary Cadogan and agency creative leader Stuart Davis started their London-based sustainable children's footwear brand Dubs in August 2022, after the pandemic had forced the UK into lockdown.
At the time, Stuart was struck by just how fast his young daughter’s feet were growing, and frustrated that the new shoes he bought didn’t last more than a few months. Worse still, most of them didn’t fit properly to begin with.
Two million pairs of children’s shoes end up in landfill every week in the UK. This figure alarmed Gary and Stuart. So, they set out to design and launch a range of children’s shoes that were stylish, comfortable and immortal.
In this fascinating episode, Stuart retraces his start-up journey with Gary, remembering the highs and lows, as well as the key lessons they have learned.
Thanks to Sage for sponsoring this episode. Sage is currently offering listeners 90% off Sage Accounting for six months. Visit this link to claim your offer.
Show notes for the episode can be found on the Start Your Own Business podcast website. Visit Start Up Donut and sign up to the Donut newsletter for more free start-up news, advice and special offers to help you save time and money.
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Lifelong friends, graphic designer Gary Cadogan and agency creative leader Stuart Davis started their London-based sustainable children's footwear brand Dubs in August 2022, after the pandemic had forced the UK into lockdown. At the time, Stuart was struck by just how fast his young daughter’s feet were growing, and frustrated that the new shoes he bought didn’t last more than a few months. Worse still, most of them didn’t fit properly to begin with. Two million pairs of children’s shoes end up in landfill every week in the UK. This figure alarmed Gary and Stuart. So, they set out to design and launch a range of children’s shoes that were stylish, comfortable and immortal. In this fascinating episode, Stuart retraces his start-up journey with Gary, remembering the highs and lows, as well as the key lessons they have learned. Thanks to Sage for sponsoring this episode. Sage is currently offering listeners 90% off Sage Accounting for six months. Visit this link to claim your offer. Show notes for the episode can be found on the Start Your Own Business podcast website. Visit Start Up Donut and sign up to the Donut newsletter for more free start-up news, advice and special offers to help you save time and money.