Fleet Feet announced that Geaux Run, located in Lafayette, LA., will partner with Fleet Feet as a franchise location.
Current co-owners Mary Hays, Mark Miller and Donald Cleveland remain on-board and will continue to own the store, with Hays continuing to oversee and manage all day-to-day operations of the business.
“We’re always thrilled when there’s an opportunity to partner with a store that shares our commitment to building and supporting running communities, and that’s exactly what’s happened here with Geaux Run,” said Robyn Goby, vice president of development of Fleet Feet. “Mary exudes passion and energy, and I’m excited Fleet Feet can support her commitment to the Lafayette running community and bring her the resources and power of a national brand.”
A native of Lafayette, Hays has co-owned the store since 2016. She first began working there as a manager in 2013. A graduate of the University of Lafayette, Hays helped manage her family’s lighting business over the course of 13 years, while also traveling extensively to 34 counties over four continents. An accomplished triathlete, Hays currently oversees a staff of six part-time employees.
“I like to say ‘have a plan, and work it,’ and we have a tremendous plan to bring some amazing resources and initiatives to Lafayette through this partnership with Fleet Feet,” said Hays. “From 3D foot scanning with the brand’s exclusive fit id system, to training programs through Fleet Feet Running Club, to online shopping through fleetfeetsports.com, our customers and community can expect a lot of exciting enhancements to the Geaux Run experience over the next few months.”
Hays said the store will hold a community event later this summer celebrating the partnership.
Founded in 1976, Fleet Feet Sports is the largest franchisor of locally owned and operated running stores, with 176 locations in 38 states and a national headquarters in Carrboro, N.C.
