Abrahams Shoe Repairs, a business that three generations of Abrahams’ craftsmen ran for 106 years in Kimberley, will be closing permanently on 22 December.
Although customers expressed their utter disappointment, Kevin Abrahams (63) and his wife, Lolly, see it as an opportunity to enjoy their retirement with their loved ones.
Kevin says a combination of factors contributed to the decision.
“Modern-day replaceable shoes cannot be repaired and poor economic circumstances, as well as the Covid-19 lockdown, hastened my retirement.”
The work is demanding, and he cannot do it alone.
“My grandfather, Henry, came from Tulbagh and opened the business in 1917 in Beaconsfield. He used to make boots and shoes, even shoes for hunting dogs to protect their paws from thorns in the veld.
“The business moved to Jones Street, but because of the Group Areas Act, he was forced to move and sold the business.
“My father started another business in West End, in Bird Street. He built the premises in Barkly Road and moved there in 1975.
“My father, also Henry, started working in the shop from the age of 12 and took over completely in 1970. My father was a legend, and passed away in 2022, aged 97. He was an avid sportsman and excelled in cycling, bowls, and rugby.”
Kevin jokingly says he never had a school holiday as a child – he has been working in the shop permanently since 1976.
He was reluctant to retire, as he loves his craft and respects the legacy his father built.
“I met new people every day and no day was the same. Everybody from all walks of life came into the shop.
“It is wonderful to see people’s faces light up when I repair their favourite shoes, belts or handbags.
“The lockdown also affected my business, as there was little income. We all got Covid-19 and I could not work. Everybody in the sector was also affected, as some of them closed and the availability of material has diminished. The pressure affected all operating costs.
“The business as an entity will not be sold, because of its legacy.”
Their loyal workers are Mduduzi Mvelase, who worked at Abrahams Shoe Repairs for six years, and Kgosietsile Tshelane, who worked there for 35 years, who will retire.
Kevin will now enjoy his free time. Lolly will join him late next year when she retires from her job at Macsteel, where she has worked in sales for 34 years.
