CEBU, Philippines - A superwoman once said in an interview with UK’s The Independent, “Low energy levels, an aching back...what’s beautiful about that? I love men, but I won’t be uncomfortable for them.” This lady of immense creativity and influence is Marcia Kilgore, founder and creative director of FitFlop, the flip-flop with gym built-in and the breakthrough wonder that saved countless soles and continues to keep happy souls fabulously fit.
Marcia Kilgore is one of the beauty industry’s heaviest hitters. She has created successful businesses such as the Bliss Spa Group and Soap & Glory. Among industry insiders, she has been referred to as the new “Estee Lauder” and has been described as being as influential in the spa business as Elizabeth Arden was to early cosmetics trading.
A strong-willed individual who has been an icon of woman empowerment, Marcia can be deemed as someone who does not conform to the dictates of the convention, a genius who dared to stylishly innovate and to excel even more. Proof of this is her first foray out of the cosmetics arena, FitFlop which was born out of her love of flip-flops and desire to squeeze in a bit of exercise into her increasingly hectic schedule. A product that has been taking the functional footwear industry by storm, the thick-soled hip sandal available in refreshing, sparky colors have amazed many not just for its superb quality but for having remarkable health benefits. “A shoe that gives your legs a work-out while you walk,” as what Marcia first thought it would be.
The FitFlop which patented Microwobbleboard mid-sole acts like a shock absorber and which curved sole gently “floats” the foot has a multitude of avid followers who attest that as a result of wearing the shoes, their legs became more toned and slender. Designed in conjunction with a London-based University’s biomechanics department and launched in the UK in May 2007, and U.S in June 2007, the FitFlop has now sold over 4 million pairs in 30 countries. This year, it has even earned the “Innovation of the Year” award from Harper’s Bazaar magazine.
Last October 14-15, internationally recognized and esteemed entrepreneur Marcia Kilgore came over from the U.K. for 2-day visit in the country. During an intimate press conference-dinner held on her first night at the Le Souffle (The Fort), Marcia charmed the Filipino press, renowned personalities and celebrities and other special guests as she recounted the many glorious years she had advocated for the fabulously fit lifestyle. Afternoon of that same day soon Marcia pleasantly accommodated interviews by various TV crews for features in lifestyle and wellness shows.
The next day, Marcia attended to a special welcome and tour Primer Star Center, the head office of the Primer Group of Companies, the group responsible for arranging and making the momentous visit possible. Established in 1985, the Primer Group of Companies is engaged in the distribution, retailing and licensing of consumer and industrial products in the Philippines including FitFlop™ through its affiliates. Aiming to become the leader in the global distribution and innovation of premium goods and services its mission is to bring the world closer to its customers. The tour was followed by a luncheon with media partners and a visit to one of the Primer Group’s stores, ROX in Bonifacio High Street where she also had a shoot for another local television program.
Marcia, who in behalf of FitFlop™ Ltd. donated one million pesos for the victims of typhoon Ondoy said during the press conference, “The Filipino people are just absolutely spectacular. I have never encountered a more caring, warm, helpful and hospitable nation. I am very proud to have the FitFlop™ brand promoted in the Philippines by the Primer Group of Companies, and hope that by helping provide great footwear, we can make an even happier Philippines.” Indeed, with the lady who many looks up to for the novel wonders she has created and for achieving the greatest of things, the quest to continue soaring high and fabulous never ceases.
FitFlop is exclusively distributed by Primer Group of Companies and is available in Res|Toe|Run and Bratpack in Ayala Center Cebu, and Duty Free Philippines