Footwear Insight

42 • Footwear Insight ~ November/December 2024 footwearinsight.com GOLD MEDAL SERVICE AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING CUSTOMER SERVICE 2024 "How fabulous it is to be able to celebrate a record number of retailers receiving the 2024 Gold Medal Service Award. And 18 retailers who received scores of 100+! Simply fantastic! Upon reflection, as I travel the U.S. visiting stores and witnessing the sales floor expertise of the independent footwear retailers, it's not a surprise. e level of professionalism and dedication to the end consumers that I personally see regularly, is inspiring. For a premium fashion comfort brand like ara, this high level of professionalism is the perfect fit. World class retailers selling world class product like ara is a mutually beneficial relationship where both parties are elevated by each other: the ara brand is elevated by being part of world class retailer's environment and the retailer is elevated by selling world class ara product that has very limited and select distribution. I am extremely proud of all the 2024 recipients, whether they carry ara or don't yet carry ara, because these retailers are representing the very best that the USA has to offer and lead by example in exhibiting the power of small businesses that drive the US economy and is the backbone of this great country. Congratulations and more power to you!" Sam Spears, President, ara Shoes North America "Brick-and-mortar stores play a vital role in showcasing what Alegria stands for: Unparalleled comfort and style. These stores provide a tangible experience that online shopping can't replicate, especially for a brand like Alegria, where the "wow" factor lies in the first try- on. Excellent customer service amplifies this experience by creating a welcoming environment where customers feel valued and understood. Knowledgeable staff can highlight Alegria's unique features, like superior arch support and signature footbeds, helping customers discover the perfect fit. When customers feel the comfort and quality firsthand, it builds trust in the brand and encourages loyalty. Delivering exceptional service in-store also transforms shoppers into ambassadors who share their positive experiences, enhancing Alegria's reputation. By combining top-tier products with outstanding service, Alegria retailers can foster lasting connections and drive long-term growth." Nick Myers, Marketing Manager, Alegria "e independent retail channel is foundational to our strategy at Propét. We recognize that these retailers are the lifeblood of local communities, offering a personalized experience and deep product knowledge that larger chains oen struggle to replicate. Independent stores help us maintain strong, direct connections with consumers, allowing for real-time feedback and the ability to quickly pivot in response to trends and needs. For us, fostering these relationships is essential to driving brand loyalty and delivering the best customer experience." Jon Brookings, VP Sales, Propét "Great brick-and-mortar stores that really know how to take care of their customers are a huge part of what makes täōs Footwear successful. We think shopping should be an experience, not just a quick transaction. A team that's both knowledgeable and passionate about what they do makes all the difference in helping customers find the right shoes. For us, these stores aren't just a distribution channel — they're partners in our mission to provide footwear that's stylish, supportive, comfortable, and high quality. When customers get personalized 'sit & fit' attention from staff who really understand their needs, they're more likely to find the perfect fit and leave feeling good. Great service builds trust and loyalty. at's why we focus on building strong relationships with retailers who share our dedication to making the customer experience better. This partnership ensures that customers not only walk away happy but keep coming back for years." Glen Barad, Founder and CEO, täōs Footwear "As a premier work boot brand, putting customers in the best products is very important to our success. Nothing helps accomplish that more than an informed salesperson assisting the customer in person. Not only is the right boot for the job important, but how that boot fits is just as important. None of that can be accomplished without the engagement of the customer and salesperson in a brick-and-mortar environment. We work hard to inform our partners about the features and benefits of our products. Many features and benefits are not visible, so informed salespeople make a huge difference. We also work hard to have the inventory they need, so they can get the customer in the boot they need on their first visit to the store. Customers look to the stores for the expertise and guidance. We are proud to be a part of the service they provide." Ty Harris, National Sales Director, orogood AND NOW, A FEW WORDS FROM OUR SPONSORS WHY GREAT RETAIL CUSTOMER SERVICE MEANS SO MUCH.

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