Q: Where are these types of stores located?

Red Wing Shoe Stores are generally located in communities of 100,000 people or more. We provide extensive demographic analysis to help determine the potential customer base for each proposed store location.

Q: What kinds of stores are dealerships?

We have four types of stores; American Worker (AW) stores feature our work brands of Red Wing and WORX and the footwear accessories that accompany these styles. American Worker/Carhartt (AWC) stores are larger versions of the standard American Worker store, with the addition of Carhartt boots and Carhartt clothing. Red Wing Brands (RWB) stores feature all five brands of our footwear including, Red Wing, WORX, Carhartt, Vasque Hiking, and Irish Setter Sport boots. Finally, our Industrial Store and Mobile Truck (IMT) concept that utilizes mobile service directly to local industries.

Q: What’s the investment to open a store?

The investment consists of inventory, fixtures and store build-out costs, and other typical expenses incurred in opening any business. Because we are not a franchise, we do not charge royalties or any initial or ongoing franchise fees. The investment cost related to the opening of AW, IMT and RWB stores is about $275,000 or more. This figure includes inventory, build-out, rent and security deposits, and pre-opening expenses and other expenses. The AWC store is a larger store with additional inventories and fixturing with an average opening cost of about $310,000 or more. These numbers, however, are only estimates. Your cost in opening a store will vary based on factors such as the size of your space, local market conditions, and other economic factors. We strongly recommend that you develop a business plan and consult an accountant, attorney, or other business advisor prior to deciding to purchase a Red Wing dealership store.

Q: How big are these stores and what kind of shopping centers are they in?

The AW and RWB stores have a standard footprint of about 1,800 square feet. The AWC store has a larger space requirement of about 2,200 square feet. RWB stores and AWC stores are typically located in larger strip centers. The Industrial Store is located in an industrial park area, has interior truck access and utilizes about 3,000 square feet.

Q: What is the process to buy and open a Red Wing Shoe Store?

We will be happy to send a packet of information that will include all the details about our retail program. The first step will be to fill out a dealership credit application. Next, after approval, we will help you identify an area that is open for a dealership. Finally, we’ll assist in training of you and your employees.

Q: What about training? Is there a lot involved?

Red Wing believes in proper fit, comfort and selection. We offer hundreds of styles of shoes and boots for virtually every occupation. It’s important to understand the features, advantages and benefits of your products to insure that your customers become returning customers year after year. We offer a comprehensive training program. We also have a great advanced training program for those that have experience in the footwear industry already.

Q: What about record keeping?

Red Wing makes available to dealership stores a state of the art system called RIMS. Our Retail Information Management System provides for in-store sales transaction and tracking, inventory control, customer database, accounts receivable, inventory replenishment, profit and loss statements, and dozens of easy to use on-demand reports. There is a fee associated with RIMS, but participation is entirely optional.

Q: What other advantages are there to owning a Red Wing Shoe Store?

We provide grand opening funds, a free yellow pages ad, inventory exchange, special payment terms on opening orders, free store design, exclusive toll-free numbers to customer service, field sales and operations support and more.

GET MORE INFORMATION

For more information regarding becoming a Red Wing Shoe dealership owner, including the potential cost of investment and territory availability, please contact us toll-free at 888-668-7245 or dealershipopportunities@rwsc.net .

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