WSS, the urban specialty California-based neighborhood footwear retailer, appointed Richard (Rick) Mina, a former executive at Foot Locker Inc., as its president.
He replaces Mark Archer, who has left the company.
A veteran footwear executive, Mina brings more than three decades of experience to WSS. Previously, he’s held a number of key leadership roles with major companies, including serving as the former president and CEO of Foot Locker North America, Foot Locker Europe, and president and CEO of Champs Sports.
Mina has spent several years in the private equity segment, and joins the company from Active Ride Shop, a leading Southern California-based action sports industry retailer, where he has served as a board member since June 2014 and as of last October, served as a stakeholder president.
As president of WSS, Mina will direct all facets of WSS’ continued market expansion and oversee strategic brand and retail partnerships.
“WSS is a significant urban footwear retailer that has specifically connected and resonated with the Latino and urban communities. They have a solid track record of giving back to the community and have built an incredible company with a great future. I am very excited to join this wonderful and capable team,” said Mina.
WSS Founder and CEO Eric Alon said, “I’m excited for what our future with Rick will bring forth. We look forward to the passion and experience that Rick brings to our company. “
>>From a base of 57 stores, increased new store openings from a run rate of 2 to 14 per year. Expanded store geographic footprint beyond Southern California to include Northern California, Nevada and Arizona.
2012 From a base of 57 stores, increased new store openings from a run rate of two per year to 14.
From a base of 57 stores,
Founded in Southern California in 1984 by entrepreneur Eric Alon, WSS stores feature a unique retail format that displays every style and size allowing customers to browse on their terms, in a hassle-free environment. WSS has 68 locations and recently has expended its store geographic footprint beyond Southern California. WSS is currently adding new stores in Central California and the Las Vegas and Phoenix markets and will enter Texas in 2016
In celebration of its 30th anniversary, WSS launched its flagship store earlier this year in Downtown Los Angeles in a historic building at 7th & Union. WSS is committed to giving back to the community it serves, sponsoring and participating in over 350 local events each year.
