Sneaker entrepreneur opens Newcastle store

Soleheaven, the brainchild of North East entrepreneur Dale Parr, has opened its first UK store in Byker’s Hoults Yard.

The brand will occupy a 1,500 sq ft warehouse space called “The Patternshop” - a 100 year-old building that has been converted into a basketball themed retail space.

Dale started the business after being inspired by sneaker culture and street wear whilst on holiday in New York and realised a demand for high quality sneakers in the North East.

He has since built a loyal customer base and become a top tier stockist carrying Nike, Converse, Vans, and New Balance, among others.

Dale said: “I wanted something different from the traditional sports store you see on every high street and I also knew that I wanted to do it here in Newcastle.”

The business has grown with turnover in its 4th year of trading as a limited company by 15%. Soleheaven has also diversified into clothing including, t-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets and hoodies.

Dale used local skilled tradesmen to fit out the shop with display stands and furniture in wood and steel; using the original features of the building, whilst filling it with imposing steel structures and polished wooden surfaces.