/24-7PressRelease/ - BALTIMORE, MD, March 30, 2008 - Barefoot Tess
today announced the launch of the company's new website, BarefootTess.com, and expanded inventory. The site now features a revamped layout, advanced browsing capabilities and more and higher-resolution product images. In addition, Barefoot Tess has introduced free shipping for all orders over $75 to any address in the continental U.S, flat rate shipping options to all international destinations and more premium express shipping options from FedEx and USPS for both domestic and international customers.
"The intent of the changes was to provide a more exciting and satisfying customer shopping experience," Barefoot Tess CEO Karen Williamson said. "The additional shipping options and the added payment option for domestic customers to use Google Checkout as well as major credit cards through our own checkout is part of our continuing commitment to improve service to our customers."
The international leader in large-size ladies shoes, Barefoot Tess carries high-end designers, popular mainstream brands, as well as its own line of private label designs.
The company's recent expansion is a reflection of a growing demand in the industry. The average woman's foot size at the turn of the century was size 5. Now the average is size 9. Once considered a niche business, the large-shoe market ( size 12 and up) is now $300 million in the United States (based on the latest U.S. Census) and continues to grow. The company estimates that the worldwide figure is closer to $1 billion.
Barefoot Tess' inventory runs through size 14 ( size 15 in some styles) and includes world-exclusive large sizes from many designers. From flip-flops to designer heels, popular brands on the site include Bernardo, Corso Como, Chie Mihara, Delman, Dolce Vita, French Sole, Havaianas, Jeffrey Campbell, Loeffler Randall, Matt Bernson, Sam Edelman, Steve Madden and Tashkent.
The company's success is reflected in recent celebrity and media exposure. Paris Hilton, Jessica Biel, Geena Davis and Celine Dion have all worn Barefoot Tess' shoes, and the company has appeared in Lucky, InStyle, People, Daily Candy, and on the Ellen DeGeneres show.
Based on first-quarter numbers and the growing demand for womens shoes, company executives conservatively estimate a 50% increase in womens shoe sales in 2008.
About Barefoot Tess LLC
Barefoot Tess LLC, based in Baltimore, Maryland, currently operates an internet based Women's Shoe Boutique as well as a warehouse showroom focused on serving customers with large sizes (shoe sizes 10 through 15) offering a wide selection of styles from high-end designers, popular mainstream brands and its own stylish private label line. For more information, please visit the company website at www.barefoottess.com, or call the Barefoot Tess store at 410.337.7722.
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