IMBOX Protection Expands Partnership with SNIPES, First U.S. Sneaker Retailer to Provide In-Store Protection Treatments

February 27, 2024

Patented, PFAS-free IMBOX Protection protects footwear from stains, color fading, wear and tear, with easy application at point of purchase

CHICAGO (Feb. 27, 2024) /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – IMBOX Protection, the world’s only in-store footwear protection technology, today announced it is expanding its partnership with SNIPES, a leading global sneaker retailer, following a successful pilot program in the United States. SNIPES will extend its offering of IMBOX Protection systems to 40 locations nationwide. IMBOX Protection, the only system holding global patents, delivers environmentally- friendly protection at the point of purchase for consumer and retailer convenience, costing $7-$8.00 per pair, per treatment.

IMBOX Protection units quietly dispense a proprietary PFAS-free formula, with full protection benefits applied in one minute. The technology ensures precise application, drying, and heating for each shoe, preserving all materials, including suede, leather, textile, nubuck, and synthetic components. As the footwear undergoes the treatment, customers may watch each step of the process on a 24-inch display on the front of the machine. Treated shoes emerge ready to wear.

“SNIPES is an iconic retailer with a savvy, passionate sneaker following and is deeply connected to local communities,” said Oliver Hede, vice president of sales, IMBOX Protection Inc. “The SNIPES customer cares about the quality and look of their footwear and expects a superior in-store experience. Our technology provides increased value for customers looking to make smart purchases, and helps consumers extend the life of their shoes before leaving the store.”

IMBOX Protection is designed and manufactured in Denmark with headquarters in Denmark, Japan and a North American headquarters in Chicago. Multiple U.S. retailers are installing IMBOX Protection units to meet increased consumer demand for a responsible, PFAS-free approach to stain and weather protection for footwear. More than 7,500 IMBOX Protection systems are in place globally with more than 35 million shoe treatments performed annually, increasing every year.

The SNIPES partnership is especially timely, aligning with the January report from the National Retail Federation (NRF) emphasizing, “Customer interaction in physical stores is as imperative as the transaction. For retailers planning to open new stores or make renovations to existing units, designers beware: Shopper expectations are elevated and moving toward lofty.”

“The expansion of in-store options caters to consumer preferences, ultimately contributing to heightened retail profitability,” continued Hede. “By addressing consumers’ needs for weather resistance and performance, IMBOX Protection is a cost-effective and time-saving solution, benefitting both retailers and customers.”

For more information on IMBOX Protection at SNIPES, visit: https://imboxprotection.com/us

*https://nrf.com/blog/7-retail-industry-predictions-2024

About SNIPES

As the leading sneaker and streetwear retailer in the US and Europe, SNIPES offers products from top brands like Nike, Jordan, adidas, and New Balance through its 750 global stores and digital properties. SNIPES works with local community partners as well as international brands and personalities such as its Chief Creative Officer DJ Khaled to support, empower, and celebrate street culture.

About IMBOX Protection Inc.
Launched in 2011 in Denmark as a more sustainable and convenient alternative to protecting shoes, IMBOX Protection is the world’s only in-store footwear protection technology service using a safe and environmentally friendly treatment to protect against water damage, dirt, stains, and color fade. IMBOX Protection has more than 7,000 units in retail stores globally selling more than 30 million treatments a year with trusted footwear retailers and partners. Based on surging demand in Europe and Japan, IMBOX Protection has expanded availability in the U.S. with a North American headquarters in Chicago. The PCT patent-protected technology is designed, developed, and manufactured in Denmark. Retailers can learn more about IMBOX Protection and its in-store footwear protection solution at https://imboxprotection.com/us.