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J e Anderson, owner of Kelley's Pace run shop in Mystic, CT, has learned a great deal about this Northeast Connecticut seaside and tourist community and its legion of runners since acquiring the shop in Olde Mistick Village. He bought the shop from Mary Camire, who operated the store for years with the late Boston Marathon champion and Olympian John Kelley before deciding to sell it in October 2014. And this past year-and-a-half has taught unique lessons of its own. Despite is challenges, Anderson admits, "COVID has been good to us. More people are outside and still want to stay outside," says Anderson, who o has his dog in store to greet customers, much like Kelley did. "Running, walking and tness are in a boom phase. I see it continuing for a while." But that doesn't mean the shop owner doesn't have worries. Namely, having enough inventor y on hand for his customers amidst supply chain challenges. "My biggest concern is keeping customers returning," Anderson says. "The less product we have, the harder it is to give them choices. We have resorted to buying a shoe at full price on a brand's website, just to keep a customer happy and make sure they come to us, and not go directly to the brand. We can't do that oen, but occasionally we think it is worth it." Anderson says he has had several A Positive Outlook. Kelley's Pace. Jeff Anderson making a connection on the sales floor. My biggest concern is keeping customers returning. e less product we have, the harder it is to give them choices. We have resorted to buying a shoe at full price on a brand's website, just to keep a customer happy." Je Anderson, Kelley's Pace 24 • September 2021 sportstyle • sportstylemag.com l Key Issues Impacting Specialty Run Retail

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