By Don Bradley
The Running Well Store is coming to Martin City.
Owner Kathy Gates says the new store will open Oct. 1 at 200 E. 135th in the building formerly occupied by KC Running Co.
She also says don’t let the name fool you.
“We are so much more than a running store,” Gates said.
“We like to say we are the place for every pace. Yes, we serve the running community and runners are really hard on their shoes, but we are also there for nurses, teachers, any worker who is on their feet all day.
“What we really focus on is fit. We find the right pair of shoes for their needs. Run well, walk well, work well.”
The company has what they call “fit gurus” who go through an extensive training program to match customers with shoe needs, including dealing with issues such as plantar fasciitis and Achillies tendinitis.
The Martin City location will be the company’s fourth store with other outlets in Lee’s Summit, Mission and Kansas City, North.
The company has a survivor story. It opened two stores not long before the pandemic hit. They sold online and by phone. Employees made deliveries.
“There was lots of anxiety and uncertainty during that time,” Gates said. “I’m really blessed to have such a fantastic team.”
A grand opening for the Martin City store is set for Oct. 14.