Grassroots Outdoor Alliance, the national organization dedicated to the health and growth of independent specialty retail, welcomed three new members to its independent retailer network.
The new members are: Cascades Outdoor Store (Winthrop, WA), Outdoor Gear Exchange (Burlington, VT) and Townsend Bertram & Co. (Carrboro, NC).
“Every retail member of Grassroots Outdoor Alliance is completely unique within their own communities, but when they join Grassroots they’re surrounded by like-minded business owners who are seeing the same opportunities, facing the same challenges and wondering about the same things. Being a part of Grassroots Outdoor Alliance builds knowledge, creates confidence and puts retailers in a strong long-term position,” said Rich Hill, president of Grassroots Outdoor Alliance.
Cascades Outdoor Store is located in the mountain town of Winthrop (population 500). The shop supports its customers with a trail-specific assortment of outdoor equipment and apparel, with a commitment to “hands on” time spent with customers.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to be welcomed into the Grassroots community. To be in a room surrounded by business owners that are all doing an amazing job is both exciting and humbling,” said Brian and Amy Sweet, owners of Cascades Outdoor Store.
Outdoor Gear Exchange has been a part of Burlington’s outdoor community for more than two decades. Founded in 1995, Outdoor Gear Exchange today employs 110 people, supports 21,000 square foot of retail and has an additional 28,000 square feet dedicated to onsite warehousing and web fulfillment. Outdoor Gear Exchange’s Charitable Grant Fund has given away over $38,000 to local non-profit organizations since 2013, helping local organizations support and grow outdoor recreation opportunities in Vermont. Outdoor Gear Exchange is owned by Marc Sherman, Mike Donohue and 10 employee shareholders.
“Every business owner is looking for better ideas, better ways to do things. We’re eager to learn, share and enjoy all the opportunities that Grassroots membership provides,” said Sherman.
Townsend Bertram & Co was founded in 1988 by Audrey Townsend and Scott Bertram, who shared a vision to create a retail business centered around community, inspiration, adventure, and protecting the planet. Thirty years later, TB&C is still family owned and operated. The store is located in Carrboro’s historic Carr Mill, the building where the business first took residence. TB&C community support includes the Scott Bertram Scholarship with Learning Outside, Haw River Assembly, Friends of Bolin Creek and other organizations dedicated to environmental protection and education.
“Only through collaboration and a shared sense of trust can outdoor retailer shops and brands join together to show the world how businesses can elevate environmental standards, create community, and give back to the organizations that protect our planet. Thank you Grassroots Outdoor Alliance,” said Betsy Bertram of Townsend Bertram & Co.
