In a sure sign of retail optimism that spring is around the corner, Flip Flop Shops is opening its first store in Greater Cleveland at Beachwood Place mall today.
BEACHWOOD, Ohio -- In a sure sign of retail optimism that spring is around the corner, Flip Flop Shops is opening its first store in Greater Cleveland at Beachwood Place mall at 10 a.m. today.
Flip Flop Shops, which calls itself the first retailer dedicated exclusively to flip flops and casual footwear, has moved into the former Sunglass Hut space next door to Ticknors Men's Clothier, on the second floor of the Dillard's wing.
Founded in 2004, Flip Flop Shops ranks No. 525 on Inc. 5000's list of the fastest-growing private companies in America, with 864 percent revenue growth over the past three years.
In 2010, it won a "Hot Retailer Award" from the International Council of Shopping Centers. Based in Kennesaw, Ga., the retailer has 10 corporate employees and reported revenues of $21.9 million in 2012.
View full sizeThe interior of the Flip Flops Shop at Beachwood Place Mall is as colorful as the outside of the store.Flip Flop Shops has nearly 100 stores worldwide, including locations at Easton Town Center in Columbus and at Kenwood Towne Centre in Cincinnati, with 150 more in the pipeline. The company is also seeking a franchisee willing to open a location at The Greene Town Center in Beavercreek, near Dayton.
"Once reserved only for poolside or beachwear, flip flops have grown to become the 'global youth uniform,' as well as accepted footwear for anyone from surfers to high-level corporate executives," the company said in a written announcement. Carrying brands including Quiksilver, RONY, SANUK, OluKai, REEF, and Cobian, "Flip Flop Shops' mission is to provide the opportunity for anyone, in any climate, to Live.Work.Play with their Toes Exposed."
Besides the continental U.S. and Canada, it also has stores in Curacao, Guam, Puerto Rico, St. Maarten and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Flip Flop Shops last month announced plans to open 25 stores throughout South Africa, Zimbabwe and Mauritius.
"The global footwear market is a nearly $200 billion industry, and the growth within the flip flops and casual footwear segment is explosive," Brian Curin, president and co-founder of the company said in a statement.
The 533-square-foot Beachwood store, which like its other locations will be scented with coconut suntan oil, is the second Ohio franchise for Joe Gernert, Tom Gernert and Jim Tamulonis. The store employs four and is currently hiring for a fifth employee (apply in store).
"It just makes sense for this area," Joe Gernert said in a statement. "Flip flops are an essential part of the everyday scene here, so my goal is to make finding the perfect pair a breeze, any time of the year."
"Flip flops are an extension of who I am and my laid-back lifestyle," he added. "I know customers throughout the area are just as passionate about 'freeing their toes' as I am, and will instantly connect with the brand."