Fleet Feet, Incorporated, the nations leading franchisor of running specialty stores, opened its 100th store in Mount Pleasant, SC Thursday. The centennial store is owned by new franchisees Chris and Amy Minkel, who are excited to bring the Fleet Feet Sports brand and inclusive culture to the community they love.
Fleet Feet Sports was founded by Sally Edwards and Elizabeth Jansen in Sacramento, CA in 1976 and with their vision and the leadership of former CEO Tom Raynor and current CEO Jeff Phillips, has grown to become the largest retailer in the specialty running industry. The brand has become known as a catalyst for community change and for helping people of all ages and abilities live a healthier lifestyle.
Our 100th store represents a huge milestone in the history of the company and for the industry as a whole,” said Phillips. “Fleet Feet Sports represents a brand culture unmatched by any competitor. Every Fleet Feet Sports store in every market is something special, something more than just another point of distribution for a national retailer. It represents a unique and powerful presence that has the power to connect with people and communities on a personal level and change lives. We are thrilled to have reached the 100th store landmark and look forward to changing lives in many more markets in future years.”
The past year marked an unprecedented year in the industry with the entry of new competitors and the first wave of consolidation of independent retailers. However, in the face of a dynamic and competitive landscape, Fleet Feet Sports still delivered 10.6% comp store growth in 2012. In addition, six new franchise locations were added to the network and eight stores expanded their locations to accommodate demand.
“We have never been in a better position for accelerating future growth,” said Phillips. “We have an incredibly strong and dedicated group of franchise owners and operators, an experienced corporate staff, a pipeline full of high-caliber franchise candidates, all combined with an unwavering commitment to service and our local owner/operator model.”
About Fleet Feet, Incorporated Fleet Feet, Incorporated is the industry leader in franchising successful, community-oriented specialty stores serving runners, walkers and lifetime fitness enthusiasts. With 100 locations in 33 states and the District of Columbia, Fleet Feet, Inc. offers support for existing and potential franchisees out of its corporate headquarters in Carrboro, NC.
