Triathlon America, an industry organization dedicated to promoting the sport and the business of triathlon, is offering a first-of-its-kind certification program for triathlon specialty retail stores. The Triathlon America Certified Retailer program is designed to direct consumers to retailers that have made significant investments in triathlon gear and services, and award stores that are committed to the sport of triathlon.
Specialty stores recognized as Triathlon America Certified Retailers have demonstrated their ability to serve the nation’s rapidly growing number of triathletes by providing a wide selection of triathlon products and services; hiring knowledgeable, well-trained staff; and playing an active role in their local triathlon communities.
“The Triathlon America Certified Retailer program is a badge of honor for specialty stores dedicated to the sport of triathlon,” said Jack Caress, President of Triathlon America. “In addition to recognizing the best triathlon retailers, we also hope to encourage other stores to begin offering more products and services for triathletes so that we can collectively grow the sport and businesses serving the market.”
In order to acknowledge the many triathlon retailers continuously striving to serve its customers, Triathlon America will award three levels of certification: Gold, Silver and Bronze. Stores that earn Triathlon America Certified Retailer status will receive certified retailer decals for the store and a certification logo that can be used in marketing materials. Certified triathlon retailers will also be recognized on the Triathlon America website, in press releases announcing their certified retailer status, and at the annual Triathlon America Conference.
Triathlon stores interested in receiving certification will be required to fill out a detailed questionnaire evaluating a wide range of products and services, provide photos of the store and complete a short essay. Certification status is good for two years.
The application process is free to Triathlon America members. There is a $100 application fee for non-members. Membership information is available at www.triathlon-america.com. For questions about the application and the certification process, please contact Paul Banta, General Manager, Triathlon America at paul@triathlon-america.com or 503-969-4147.
