Proudly celebrating 90 years

In its nine decades of existence, R.M.Williams has become one of the best-known – and best-loved – footwear brands in the world. Originally built to take on the rugged, unforgiving Australian outback, our iconic one-piece-leather boots have gone on to grace the feet of millions of people around the world.

The beginning

Reginald Murray ‘RM’ Williams first crafted an elastic-sided leather boot while working with the Andyamathana people in the Flinders Ranges. The legend of his handcrafted boots grew, and he soon had a booming mail order business, supplying hardworking stockmen with the durable footwear they needed. From humble beginnings in the South Australian bush, R.M.Williams was founded.

5 Percy St.

Growing demand for RM’s leather boots soon called for the establishment of a workshop. He moved into 5 Percy Street in Adelaide and employed a team of highly skilled craftspeople, who began to produce a wider range of leather accessories and clothing.

Birth of an icon

Australian style changed forever when the Craftsman boot stepped out of the workshop in 1966. With a chisel square toe and a sleek profile, this boot was soon a bestseller, synonymous with timeless style. And thus, an icon was born.

Expansion and growth

Having outgrown its Percy Street location, the workshop moved to its current home in Salisbury and continued to expand. The business' national renown was cemented with the opening of stores across Australia.

Innovation

Under the ownership of Ken Cowley, R.M.Williams continued to grow and diversify, with the introduction of new products and the opening of new stores in capital cities around the world. RM sadly passed away in 2003 and was honoured with a state funeral, leaving behind an incredible legacy to protect.

Taking back the reins

In 2020, R.M.Williams was purchased by Tattarang, a Western Australian investment group with authentic outback roots. Under the stewardship of the Forrest family, the business is firmly back in Australian hands and looking ahead to a prosperous future. Down in Adelaide, the workshop continues to thrive thanks to renewed investment in local manufacturing.

A sustainable future

Future focuses for the business include a Climate Positive certification, a switch to regenerative energy at all sites and complete supply chain transparency. R.M.Williams will also continue to offer training and a growing number of job opportunities across the business, preserving the practice of heritage craft for generations to come.