Stepping Through Time: 120 Years of Cherry Blossom

2026 is a big year for Cherry Blossom. It’s our 120^th birthday!

As Britain’s oldest shoe care brand, we’re incredibly proud to be celebrating 120 years of protecting your footwear. Since 1906, Cherry Blossom has helped generations of people care for the shoes that carry them through life. From welcoming festival-goers at the 1911 Crystal Palace to supporting today’s city workers and commuters, one thing has always been true: quality never goes out of style.

Over the past 12 remarkable decades, we’ve grown and developed alongside Britain’s changing fashions, lifestyles and materials. But through every era of change, our purpose has remained the same: to protect and prolong the life of footwear, helping people to shine with confidence.

Humble Beginnings

Our story began in Edwardian London as a family-run business producing traditional polishes and waxes for leather boots. At the time, Britain’s growing industrial and military strength demanded tough, reliable shoe care, so we stepped up to the challenge. Our early formulations were designed to withstand mud, grit and rain, and were trusted by servicemen and working professionals alike.

From Household Staple to Modern Shoe Care Leader

By the mid-20^th century, Cherry Blossom had become a household name. As post-war Britain embraced new materials and modern styles, we adapted too – introducing liquid polishes, instant shine applicators and protector sprays to keep pace with changing footwear trends. That commitment to quality and convenience ensured we remained a trusted staple for busy households, generation after generation.

Cherry Blossom Today

Our 120^th anniversary is a chance to indulge in a little nostalgia – and it’s also a celebration of how far we’ve come. Whilst our iconic shiny red tins of polish are still instantly recognisable, our modern formulations are designed for today’s world, providing both performance and sustainability.

We continue to lead the way with eco-conscious innovations, including water-based solutions and solvent-free formulations that deliver exceptional results without compromising on environmental responsibility. With our headquarters based in the heart of Derbyshire, every Cherry Blossom formula is quality-controlled and tested to rigorous standards – ensuring the same level of trust that customers have relied on for generations.

Always Evolving, Always Trusted

The way people wear and value their footwear has changed dramatically over the years. From polished brogues of the 1920s to colourful trainers of the 2020s, we’ve remained at the forefront, evolving to meet the demands of new generations while staying true to our roots.

Our longevity is not just about product innovation. It’s about understanding how people live, move and express themselves through their footwear. That understanding has allowed us to remain relevant for more than a century, quietly protecting the nation’s shoes through every step of the journey.

120 Years… And Still Stepping Forward

As Cherry Blossom steps into its 120^th year, the brand continues to uphold its founding values of quality, reliability and British heritage whilst continuously adapting to meet the current demands of the footwear world. In 2026, please join us in celebrating this momentous milestone, with promotions, historic shoe facts and plenty of chances to get involved and share your favourite Cherry Blossom memories. Because, whilst trends come and go, trust, quality and expertise – like a great pair of shoes – always stand the test of time.

Cherry Blossom: proudly caring for Britain’s shoes since 1906.