History
From the beginning to today – our story is one of milestones, innovations, and a clear vision for the future. Experience how it all started and where we are heading!
Our Development
Since our founding in 1928, we have continuously evolved, always focusing on innovation and quality. Along the way, we have achieved several milestones that have shaped us into what we are today. With each step, we have optimized our processes, further developed our products, and strengthened our team. In this timeline, you will see the key events that have shaped our history. Experience how our vision has unfolded over the years – from the very beginning to our current position as a reliable partner in the industry.
Today, Potthoff Shoe Wholesale specializes in work-related products. We offer a wide range of work shoes, safety shoes, and rubber boots of all types and classifications, as well as workwear for nearly every industry. Additionally, we carry an extensive selection of care products and accessories.
To meet the ever-growing demand, the warehouse was expanded by an additional 3,000 square meters. This expansion strengthens our logistical infrastructure and provides us with the flexibility to manage our inventory more efficiently and reduce delivery times.
In June 2018, we moved into our new warehouse and logistics center in Senden-Bösensell, covering an expansive 5,000 square meters. This location allows us to further automate and streamline our processes, enabling us to offer our customers even faster and more reliable service.
After 25 successful years at our Gremmendorf location, it became clear that the available space was no longer sufficient to support the company’s growth. As a result, we began constructing a new, modern hall in Senden-Bösensell. The decision to invest in new, larger premises was a pivotal step in optimizing our logistics processes and enhancing the efficiency of our services.
In this year, the shoe wholesaler Potthoff celebrated two significant milestones: its 75th anniversary and the expansion of the warehouse to over 3,000 square meters. This anniversary not only highlighted the company’s long-standing tradition but also its ability to adapt to market conditions and grow continuously.
During World War II, the business was destroyed by bombings, and the Potthoff family had to be evacuated to Raestrup-Everswinkel. In 1948, reconstruction began in Münster on Warendorfer Straße, initially in simple barracks, before moving to Achtermannstraße 11 in 1950.
On June 22, Arnold Potthoff, the son of Heinrich Potthoff, founded the shoe wholesale business in Münster together with his wife Hanni. In 1932, Arnold Potthoff became a member of the “Verband Deutscher Schuhgroßhändler e. V.” (then “Reichsverband”).