The Finalists
Profiles of the three other finalists for Store of the Year.
FLEET FEET MONTCLAIR
Montclair, NJ www.fleetfeet.com/s/montclair Key Personnel: Dawn and John Fabbro, Owners, and a dedicated staff of 24, including their three daughters. History: Founded November 1, 1987 In Their Words: “Our local store is part of a national vision to build a running community dedicated to health and wellness. For 34 years, we have listened to the message of our community, adapting to be part of solutions to the needs surrounding us. “This year more than ever, inclusivity has been the constant measure of our success: Does everyone who comes through the front door feel welcome and invited in? Customers? Staff? Vendors? The UPS driver or the mail carrier? Are we providing the gear, services and support that each person needs to successfully keep moving their bodies and minds forward each day? “These questions are our daily challenges to listen better and to learn at every opportunity. It is unique, possibly, after more than three decades, to learn that we must expand our boundaries to broaden our community and that we can remain open to change in order to continuously take steps forward. “We are focusing our efforts in 2021 and 2022 on broadening our cultural comfort zones and learning more about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). Including new people is obviously good for business, but it is good us personally and is what we sense is needed right now. We are using running to bring people together. “As one of our marathon training program participants who recovered from
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heart surgery seven months ago and went on to complete the 2021 NYC Marathon recently shared, “...there is synergy in our community — we accomplish more as a group than we can as individuals.” What the Award Means to Them: “Fleet Feet Montclair has recognized our need to encourage inclusivity in all aspects of our business. Being recognized by the industry reaffirms that our direction is one that rings true and resonates nationwide. We are privileged to join the leaders of the running channel who understand that Running Changes
Everything and can be used as an agent for change, especially when our country and world need to take one step at a time toward positive outcomes for our global community.”
JOHN’S RUN/WALK SHOP
Two Stores in Lexington, KY www.johnsrunwalkshop.com Key Personnel: Melody, Owner; Riley, GM; Emma and Kellen, Shoe Buyers; Nic and Taylor, Receivers and Assistant Buyers; Michelle, Floor Manager History: John’s Run/Walk Show was
Fleet Feet Montclair has been part of the local running community for 34 years with an emphasis on inclusivity a measure of its current success.
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