Fleet Feet, the largest franchisor of run specialty stores in the U.S., reports that new franchisees Chris and Angie Walker have opened a new Fleet Feet store in Hattiesburg, MS.
Chris Walker began his career with Fleet Feet 13 years ago after participating in an evening run at Fleet Feet Jackson. Walker spent years trying to find a job in which he was passionate and began working at Fleet Feet Jackson in 2012. Walker channeled the rewarding feeling of helping someone find the right pair of running shoes into fueling his dream of opening a running store. With his wife’s support, they opened Fleet Feet Hattiesburg.
“Opening this store is a dream come true,” said Walker. “My wife and I met at Fleet Feet Jackson. I was coaching one of our half-marathon training programs. She was a participant, and I ran with her pace group during a Saturday group run one day. We spent several miles talking and running, and everything changed! We’re looking forward to finally opening our own Fleet Feet and having our story come full circle.”
As a family-owned business, the Walkers are committed to supporting Hattiesburg’s active lifestyle and giving back to the community.
“Chris has been a member of the Fleet Feet family for more than a decade, and we couldn’t be more excited to watch him develop into this new role as a franchise owner alongside his wife, Angie,” said John Moloznik, vice president of retail development, Fleet Feet, Inc. “This community is full of active, health-conscious individuals. With two large hospitals, an army base, two universities, and a 44-mile-long running trail nearby, Fleet Feet Hattiesburg will be a great resource not only for athletes of all levels but for people simply looking for a comfortable pair of shoes to support them through their workday.”
Fleet Feet Hattiesburg will host a grand opening in January 2025.
Images courtesy Fleet Feet Hattiesburg
