The retirement of Blaine and Robin Lewis, Fleet Feet Roanoke franchise owners since 2003, was announced by Fleet Feet corporate. General Manager Matt Thompson will purchase the store with an anticipated ownership transaction finalized in December.
The Lewis’ established FF Roanoke as the leading local retailer for those with an active lifestyle and built a reputation as a resource for shoe fittings and partner for medical referrals. The Lewis’ also supported the Roanoke community through various charitable giving initiatives.
“When Matt Thompson joined our team earlier this year, it was immediately evident how deeply he cared for the brand and for the Roanoke community. As we thought about the future of our business, it became clear what a natural fit he is to lead Fleet Feet Roanoke into the future,” said the Lewis’.
“Blaine and Robin have been tremendous leaders and fixtures of the Roanoke community for nearly 20 years,” said Joey Pointer, CEO and president, Fleet Feet. “Their passion for healthy living supported and inspired the emergence of an outdoor and active lifestyle throughout Roanoke. More than that, Blaine and Robin have modeled what it means to be servant leaders, dedicated not only to each and every customer who walked through their store doors but to those elsewhere in the community, looking for a helping hand, support and encouragement.”
Fleet Feet, founded in 1976, is the largest franchisor of locally owned and operated run specialty stores with more than 250 locations in 40 states and a national headquarters in Carrboro, N.C.
