Suckling Bros. (Nathaniel Joseph, and John Suckling), Wholesale Boot and Shoe Manufacturers and Importers, Dundas Street, Christchurch South. Telephone, 354; P.O. Box, 358. Bankers, Union Bank of Australia. Private residences: Mr N. J. Suckling, “Dearsleyhurst,” New Brighton; Mr. J. Suckling, Stanmore Road, Linwood. The large business conducted by this well-known firm was established in 1871; it has been carried on by the present proprietors for over thirty years, and the firm is the oldest in this trade in Christchurch. The premises, which were built especially in brick for the firm, have a floor space of over 12,000 feet. With the exception of the front part of the building, they are on the ground floor, but the front portion is of two stories. The factory contains a valuable plant, comprising the latest machinery invented for the trade, and is driven by a twenty-one horse-power Otto gas engine. Messrs Suckling Bros, were the first to introduce into the colony of New Zealand the “Goodyear” welting and stitching machinery for making facsimiles of hand-sewn boots. The firm makes it a rule, where practicable, to use colonia, manufactured leathers. However, it also imports all kinds of fancy leathers direct from Britain, France, Germany, Switzerland, and America. The firm's well-known brand of boots (S. B. in diamond) is a guarantee for the excellence of the quality and workmanship. About 150 hands are employed in connection with Messrs Suckling Bros.' works. Their business extends throughout the colony, and the partners periodically visit the firm's customers.