At KUKShades HQ we are approaching our first anniversary as a Gandys stockist and what a year it has been. Last summer our customers went flip flop crazy. We had one of our busiest seasons and had so much fun, showcasing and getting to know the brand. 

We had always wanted to stock flip flops in our new footwear department and after lots of research, for us, no ther brand would do. So what is it that makes Gandys so special? When you hear their story, you'll know why.

Gandys was the idea of two brothers Rob and Paul Forkan who, after losing their parents in the Boxing Day Tsunami of 2004, wanted to do something to pay forward the kindness the Sri Lankan community showed them; helping them and their siblings make it back to the UK. Their flip flop business was a way they could do this. Together they set up the charity Orphans for Orphans and 10% of all of Gandys profits are paid into it. The charity has just completed it's first project - a school for under priviledged children.

Gandys also insist the production of their flips flops is ethical and responsible. They use only FSC certified rubber and continue to ensure the people who make them are paid and treated fairly. 

Rob & Paul Forkan - Orphans for Orphans (image courtesy of Gandys)

I was veryfortunated to meet Rob at the Small Business Sunday event in 2015. He spoke at the event about the brand and building the business - a real inspiration.

Meeting Rob Forkan at the 2015 SBS Event.

2016 sees a new direction for Gandys and KUKShades is thrilled to be a part of it. The company has worked on some exciting new flip flop designs and intoduced a whole new line of products, including travel bags, shoes, sunglasses and beach towels.  We can't wait to add these products to our collection. We have our order in and the new stock will be available at the end of March.

NEW for 2016 - Round Beach Towels by Gandys. (Image courtesy of Gandys)

KUKShades is so proud to be a Gandys stockist. Our customers are happy too and tell us, consistently, how comfortable the flip flops are and how much they love the designs. We know we made the right choice.

Here's to many more years selling Gandys flip flops.

Candice xx