Fleet Feet has been named to Inc.’s 2022 Best in Business list for making an extraordinary impact in its community. The third-annual list recognizes private companies putting purpose ahead of profit. Fleet Feet was honored in the Retail category.
“At Fleet Feet, we believe that it’s a privilege to serve. Our franchise owners, local operators and store teams are driven by their passion and commitment to their customers; they embody the best of community retail,” states Joey Pointer, president and CEO. “We take pride in being the national resource for local running and are honored by Inc.’s recognition as one of the best brands in business.”
With more than 250 locations nationwide, Fleet Feet is the largest specialty run retailer in the country and serves thousands of customers daily. Each store comprises local owners or operators, managers and employees who work to support their customers. The dedication to service extends beyond the sales floor, with each location supporting its local organizations and events whenever possible.
Fleet Feet is rooted in the belief that running is for everyone and has the power to effect positive, lasting change. From helping the customer searching for solutions for their aching feet to the customer running their 10th marathon—Fleet Feet offers a people-first retail experience.
“Inc. magazine is dedicated to showcasing America’s most dynamic businesses and the great things they do,” says Scott Omelianuk, editor-in-chief of Inc. “The Best in Business awards shine a light on those that have gone above and beyond their original mission to make a social, environmental or economic impact, benefiting those around them.”
Rather than relying on quantitative criteria tied to sales or funding, Inc.’s editors reviewed the companies’ achievements over the past year and noted how they made a positive difference in the world. They then selected honorees in 55 different categories—from advertising to sustainability to retail—and further broke them down into age-based, revenue-based, size-based and impact-based categories.
This is the third business award Fleet Feet has received in the last quarter. In October, the chain was named to Fast Company‘s Brands That Matter list for having an indisputable impact on business and culture. In November, Fleet Feet was named to the Triangle Business Journal’s 2022 Fast 50 list, recognizing it as one of the fastest-growing private companies in the Raleigh/Durham area of North Carolina, where Fleet Feet is headquartered.
Additionally, within the running industry, 12 locally owned and operated Fleet Feet stores were named this month to The Running Event’s 2022 Best Running Stores list.