Fleet Feet Expands in Puget Sound With Acquisition of South Sound Running Stores

December 26, 2024

Pannell family adds eighth location in Washington state

OLYMPIA, Wash., PUYALLUP, Wash. and CARRBORO, N.C. (Dec. 26, 2024) /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – Fleet Feet, the largest franchisor of run specialty stores, has announced the acquisition of two key locations in Olympia and Puyallup, Washington. Following the retirement of South Sound Running founders Greg Klein and Joan Marchioro, Wade and Julie Pannell have acquired the Olympia and Puyallup locations, marking a new chapter for Fleet Feet in the region.

The South Sound Running locations are scheduled to reopen as Fleet Feet Olympia on Jan. 2, 2025, and Fleet Feet Puyallup on Jan. 10. With six existing stores throughout Washington, including Bonney Lake, Spokane, Spokane North, Spokane Valley, Tacoma and Richland, the acquisition positions the Pannells to make Fleet Feet the go-to running store across the Puget Sound region, further strengthening their presence in Washington.

“We are honored to carry on the exceptional work of South Sound Running and deepen our connection with the Olympia and Puyallup communities,” said Wade Pannell. “With our experience in Tacoma and Bonney Lake, we have the local knowledge and experience to build upon their legacy, provide outstanding service and foster a welcoming space for runners and walkers of all levels.”

Founded in 1998, South Sound Running has been an integral part of the South Sound running community. Fleet Feet will honor this legacy while introducing its signature fit id® outfitting experience, which uses 3D foot scanning technology to assess the size, shape, and movement of each customer’s feet. This personalized, expert-led approach allows outfitters to offer the right fitting footwear and accessories for each customer.

Additionally, Fleet Feet will expand the range of footwear available, adding popular brands like HOKA, Altra, and On, to complement the existing selections.

As part of the transition, Fleet Feet will continue the Capital City Marathon Training Program that has been a staple at South Sound Running and expand offerings to include 5K programs, long-distance training and trail running, serving runners of all levels. The Pannells bring their proven training programs to the region, which have already helped over 3,500 people reach their fitness goals.

“Wade and Julie have built strong, genuine connections with their customers and communities across every market they serve,” said John Moloznik, vice president of retail development at Fleet Feet. “With over a decade of experience, the Pannells have consistently driven growth and excellence. We’re thrilled to continue growing alongside them and know their passion for running will make this new chapter a great success.”

Fleet Feet Olympia and Puyallup are hiring new employees. If you’re looking to turn your passion into your career in a fast-paced, fun, and customer-centric environment, apply at jeremiah@fleetfeettacoma.com.

For more than 48 years, Fleet Feet owners, operating partners, and employees have created welcoming environments that allow runners, walkers, and fitness enthusiasts of all abilities to conquer their goals at every level, on every surface, at every distance with personalized solutions, knowledge, and empowerment. Fleet Feet’s nationwide network of community-based retail stores are a place of inspiration, showing people how Running Changes Everything®.

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About Fleet Feet

Founded in 1976, Fleet Feet is the largest franchisor of locally owned and operated run specialty stores. With more than 275 Fleet Feet stores in 40 states and a national headquarters in Carrboro, N.C., Fleet Feet is committed to providing runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts with outfitting expertise, robust training programs, community support and rewards. Fleet Feet believes that RUNNING CHANGES EVERYTHING® and has been recognized in Fast Company’s Brands That Matter, the Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Companies and Best in Business, Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Retailers and America’s Best Online Shops, and PRWeek’s Purpose Awards. Stay inspired, motivated and connected at Fleet Feet.

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