Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/1515018
At Murray's Shoes in Littleton, CO, the team is optimistic about 2024 and excited about brands adding new styles and colors to the mix. Lamey-Wellehan, Scarborough, ME, will be testing out some new mar- keting ideas in 2024 and expanding its product mix. "I think this election cycle is going to get super crazy with a lot of potential geopolitical ramifications and a recession looming but small hustlers and operators like [my brother] Nicky and I will always figure something out. e Pedorthics program is going to be huge for us and the most important to execute on for 2024. Custom orthotics already account for our no. 1 SKU in both sales and volume but it's just myself and my father doing that work. We're at an acceptable capacity and need help. We are going through Rick Sevier and his business 'Steampunk Biomechanics Academy' for the Pedorthic schooling with three apprentices. at will be about a nine-month program, and we hope to have them certified by September. We also plan on targeting the online over-the-counter insert market and have a goal to become the number one retailer by 2025 with a program we've dubbed Project Archaeopteryx. e play here is a multistep with a focus on eCommerce customization and service for OTC's." — Tony Chiappetta, Chiappetta Shoes "We see the future of retail being able to try new and different brands that are retail focused and don't discount their own items online. We feel that there are some really great brands out there that are unique and different and want to grow with us. We are also seeing a change in people's buying habits. Not everyone likes the corporate business model, and they are looking to spend money with places that invest back into their communities. is is obviously a good thing for us as we are a small business that cares deeply about our community and we do everything we can to make it grow!" — Bill Golden, Golden Shoes The Shoe Box in Lakeport, CA, is excited to be celebrating 10 years in business in 2024. RETAIL 22 • Footwear Insight ~ January/February 2024 footwearinsight.com At your service at Boger's Shoes in Orange Park, FL. Left to right: Brett Boger, Stephen Scratch, James Giddens.