The Running Event Names =PR= Run & Walk the Best Running Store of 2024

November 22, 2024

=PR= Run & Walk received the honor during the annual Industry Awards Dinner at The Running Event 2024

AUSTIN, Texas (November 22, 2024) /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – =PR= Run & Walk has been named the Best Running Store of 2024 at The Running Event (TRE), North America’s premier run and outdoor specialty retail conference and trade show. This prestigious awards program recognizes the top run specialty retailers across the United States, with one standout store earning the title of Store of the Year each year. With multiple locations across Virginia, =PR= Run & Walk received this honor during the annual Industry Awards Dinner on Thursday, November 21, in Austin, Texas.

The 2024 Best Running Stores garnered more than 12,500 nominations from customers, employees, and industry professionals, representing nearly 250 retailers and 29 states across the U.S. Through a detailed evaluation process, stores were assessed on criteria such as community engagement, sustainability efforts, inclusivity, mentorship opportunities, employee benefits, and innovation. The final determination of winners included secret shopper evaluations of the in-store experience.

“It’s truly inspiring to see how these retailers continue to uplift their communities and drive the running industry forward,” says Christina Henderson, Event Director of TRE. “We’re thrilled to honor and celebrate their incredible achievements tonight.”

During the Industry Awards Dinner at TRE held Thursday evening, 63 Best Running Stores were celebrated for their exceptional contributions to their communities and the running industry. The evening also recognized the Top Four stores overall: =PR= Run & Walk, multiple locations, VA; Up and Running, Dayton, Ohio; A Runner’s Mind, San Francisco, CA; and Fleet Feet Fayetteville, NC.

“We’re honored and humbled to be named the 2024 Store of the Year! Running is about more than miles—it’s about finding our people, our community, and creating connections that last a lifetime,” says Cathy and Ray Pugsley, owners of =PR= Run & Walk. “Life is better when we lift each other up, and this industry’s collaborative spirit proves we’re all stronger together.”

Click here to see all the Best Running Stores of 2024. Nominations for 2025 will open in February.

About The Running Event

Launched in 2006, The Running Event (TRE) is North America’s premier specialty retail conference and trade show, attracting thousands of industry professionals each year who are seeking the latest in footwear, apparel, gear, and services. With numerous opportunities for peer learning, interactive conference programming, and dynamic product demonstrations and discovery, TRE has become the must-attend event for the run and outdoor specialty markets. In 2022, TRE expanded with the launch of Switchback, a dedicated space showcasing outdoor brands. The inaugural Switchback Spring will take place June 16-18, 2025, in Nashville, TN; TRE 2025 will take place December 2-4 in San Antonio, TX. For more information, visit www.therunningevent.com and www.switchbackevent.com.

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Contacts: Obviouslee Marketing | tre@obviouslee.com