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O ver the past few months, I've had the pleasure to talk with many specialty retailers, all of whom acknowledged the many challenges they have faced and continue to face. One thing they all told me is that while they understand the challenges they are facing, they would love to read and learn more about what's working. How are other retailers handling staffing issues? What are customer expectations these days? What new product categories should they consider? We'd love to learn more about these topics, as well, so we went straight to the source. For staffing, we went right to the shop floor of independent retailers for their hiring advice, best practices and how they find great employees. Values, attitudes and personality are the common themes. Justin Craig from RUNdetroit told us he invites potential candidates to come in for two short sessions that he calls "shadow day" to see what it's like to work at his store and how those candidates get along with other store associates. In addition to a candidate's work experience, retailers say they also focus on their people experience – Are they good listeners? Will they fit into our store's culture? "We focus more on finding applicants that align with our values as an organization… and have found it to be successful in hiring and retaining great employees," commented Dillan Dardano of Dardano's Shoes. Others suggest that the hiring conversation should also include a discussion on what your store has to offer potential employees. Referrals are also key when looking for candidates, including run clubs, student athletes and your current employees. An important point that came across from everyone is that you must remain open minded. As Mark Wagner from Shoe Fly pointed out, "the qualities that are most important don't show up on paper." See Bob McGee's story, Hiring Advice From e Shop Floor on page 20. On the product side, the sports and fitness market continued to experience record-breaking sales in 2021, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association's (SFIA) 2022 Manufacturers' Sales By Category Report. Tom Cove, president and CEO of SFIA stated, "When Americans were restricted from schools, facilities and group gatherings, they still wanted to be physically active, and they purchased products for this purpose. As pandemic restrictions lessened, Americans continued to buy active lifestyle products, showing how central the sports and fitness industry is to their well-being." Which brings us to the sport of Pickleball, the nation's fastest growing sport. Our special report, 10 ings You Need To Know About Pickleball begins on Page 44. Pickleball captivates players of all ages the moment they step foot on a court. Many retailers have taken notice, and there are plenty of brands to work with as an influx of new players are seeking products. Our exclusive consumer survey gives you a snapshot of who intends to play, and demographics on those currently playing, including where they play, where they shop, and how they shop. It's an opportunity that's working. Finally, check out the story on Chicken N Pickle (page 74), a unique indoor/outdoor entertainment complex featuring a restaurant, sports bar and pickleball courts. What's their main challenge? High demand. Jeff Nott CEO & Publisher 4 • July/August 2022 WHAT'S WORKING NOW. Pickleball captivates players of all ages the moment they step foot on a court. Many retailers have taken notice, and there are plenty of brands to work with as an influx of new players are seeking products. sportstyle • sportstylemag.com ON THE HORIZON Photo: Frank James

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