Fleet Feet’s Early 2025 Expansion Continues in North Carolina
The year is young, but Fleet Feet is not wasting time with its brick-and-mortar expansion.
Fleet Feet Burlington, which is located at 3816 Rural Retreat Rd. in North Carolina, is now open. The location is the third Fleet Feet store owned by John and Elizabeth Dewey, who also have doors in Greensboro (which opened in 2003) and High Point (which opened in 2012).
“John and Liz have become pillars in their communities,” Fleet Feet vice president of business development John Moloznik said in a statement. Their success in Greensboro and High Point — built on consistent growth, customer loyalty and an inclusive culture — makes them the perfect partners for this expansion. We’re confident that their continued success will be a tremendous asset to the Fleet Feet brand.”
Inside, consumers can expect to see the same top brands found throughout the run specialty retailer’s doors, including footwear from Brooks and Hoka. Also, this location will also offer Fleet Feet’s exclusive Fit ID service that the retailer explained uses 3D foot scanning and dynamic pressure mapping to assess foot shape and gait.
In addition to product, Fleet Feet stated the store will serve as a hub for the local running and fitness community, and because of its proximity to running paths and parks, Fleet Feet Burlington is a destination for fun runs and community events.
There will be a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Fleet Feet Burlington on Jan. 13 at 9 a.m. ET.
Aside from Fleet Feet Burlington, a pair of December 2024 acquisitions — Flying Feet in Pennsylvania and South Sound Running’s two stores in Washington — have been converted to Fleet Feet this year. Fleet Feet Olympia, Fleet Feet Puyallup and Fleet Feet York are all now open.
Speaking with FN, Fleet Feet chief executive officer Joey Pointer said there are six store openings scheduled for January with more to come.
“What I’ve learned is post-COVID is nothing ever goes as fast anymore, from permits to build-outs. Everything just seems to be a snail’s pace at some moment in time. But I don’t think 15 [new stores] is unrealistic,” Pointer told FN. “Interest is high, both in new franchisees as well as existing franchisees opening, second, third, fourth locations. We’re looking at a handful of acquisitions, which we haven’t had many over the past couple years. You’ll see some movement from us. I wouldn’t be surprised if we hit 20.”
About the Author
Peter Verry is the Senior News and Features Editor for Athletic and Outdoor at Footwear News. He oversees coverage of the two fast-paced and ultracompetitive markets, which includes conducting in-depth interviews with industry leaders and writing stories on sneakers and outdoor shoes. He is a lifelong sneaker addict (and shares his newest purchases via @peterverry on Instagram) and spends most of his free time on a trail. He holds an M.A. in journalism from Hofstra University and can be reached at peter.verry@footwearnews.com.