Celebrate TRU 10 With Us!

We bring over 300 brands to local retailers in a relaxed, comfortable, convenient setting. You’ll find a wide variety of lines and styles, featuring top brands of women’s, men’s and children’s footwear lines, as well as related accessories such as handbags and hosiery.

At TRU Show, styles come and go… and come back again.  Some things have changed and some things never will.  As we celebrate our 10 year Anniversary, we take a look at what has changed and where we are going…

What has always been consistent at TRU Show?

At TRU Show our mission and values have never changed.  We strive to provide the best show, at the best price, with the best interests of our industry in mind.

We value the relationships with our exhibitors and buyers.  And that shows in the customer service we provide from the moment they arrive at registration, through the hospitality during the show, and ends with prizes and recognition awarded at the end of the show.

The success of our exhibitors and retailers is our top priority.  We know that providing a private, distraction free environment allows buyers and reps to make successful business decisions when placing their orders.

          

There have been a lot of changes in the industry, how has TRU stayed ahead of the trends?

Exhibitors and retailers alike would tell you that automation has changed the landscape of their business and it has changed ours as well.  TRU Show was the first trade show with a dedicated website and online registration.  Our TRU Souls blog and social media feeds on Twitter and Instagram allows new and existing exhibitors a connection and insight into show layout and agenda.  But, despite an easy online interface, we have maintained a personal presence with all of our attendees.

Flexibility has also been key to our success over the years.  TRU Show regularly evaluates show dates, venues, and new cities to stay in line with the best interests of our industry.  But, San Francisco has been a mainstay and a favorite location on our event calendar.

Where do you see TRU Show headed in the future?

We continue to look to new cities where we can replicate the success of TRU Show San Francisco to other regions.

At TRU Show, we also want to leave a lasting impact on the industry.  Look for TRU Show to lead the way in maintaining best in class support to our retailers and exhibitors.

Any final thoughts as you reflect over the 10 years of TRU?

T.R.U. stands for Traveling Reps United.  The last 10 years have been successful because TRU Reps have consistently come back to TRU season after season, year after year. We also have a large and dependable group of retailers that make TRU Show a key element in their business planning.  All of you are a part of our TRU Souls family.  We are thankful for you and we hope you continue to find success in business and life.

We will be celebrating our 10 year anniversary all year long.  Plan to join us for our next TRU Show celebration this August. Upcoming Events

These are just a few pictures from our TRU Show 10 year, Oscars After Party.

Italian Craftsmanship Meets the Global Fashion Marketplace

As we near our 10 year anniversary of TRU Show, it’s fascinating to look back and note all the changes in the footwear industry. Fast forward to today, where shoe retailers and reps have to be on their toes to thrive in a global economy that is driven by the constant flow of information to consumers. So, I think our next interview will be interesting for everyone trying to ride the tide of the footwear and fashion industry. David Clementoni’s entrepreneurial spirit and love for the art of shoemaking in his country gave birth to the idea for his company, Italian Artisan.

Tell us how Italian Artisan came to be…

I recognized a business need between small luxury buyers and high quality Italian manufacturers.

Buyers of luxury fashion for department or boutique stores are increasingly eager to find something that will differentiate them from their competitors. Exclusively designed and manufactured fashion pieces allow them to sharpen their product offerings to clients. In fact, even large established high-end fashion brands are at risk of losing their appeal because of a widespread shift to mass production and industrialization. Made in Italy products continue to carry the reputation of high fashion, high quality. But it can be difficult for buyers to find and communicate with these high-quality manufacturers.

At the same time, the vast majority of Italian Manufacturers of Excellence find it hard to reach out to international markets due to a number of factors, including limited knowledge of international business best practices and language barriers. Still, they are eager to find new revenue streams outside Italy, across flourishing international markets. Italian Artisan simplifies this process for both sides.

Tell be about the range of products available to buyers?

Our buyers have access to designs in men’s and women’s high fashion footwear as well as a large accessory line including, leather wallets, cases, and a large collection of bags. We have over 450 bags in collection. The magic of our short design cycles is that new collections can be added all the time. Small manufacturers have the flexibility to produce designs with a 4-6 week lead time.

How did you get started developing your company?

In June 2013, I decided to leave my family business (www.clementoni.com), to pursue the entrepreneurial adventure of helping the internationalization of small Made in Italy manufacturers.

A chance encounter with my business partner, Andrea, a computer engineer with more than 20 years of experience, was instrumental. My managerial skills and internationalization know-how and Andrea’s technological and programming skills were the right mix for the realization of Italian Artisan.

How does Italian Artisan connect retail stores in America to Italian Manufacturers?

Italian Artisan is a powerful, yet easy-to-use B2B web platform that enables connections and transactions between Buyers and Manufacturers. The business process between parties becomes exceptionally efficient, effective and fast.

Buyers choose from a wide range and variety of top of the line Italian fashion goods—they can even define their own unique, dream collection and get it done in three easy steps.

Manufacturers raise their visibility significantly to Buyers ready to buy their products. Manufacturers keep doing what they do best while letting Artisan’s platform to do the rest.

Buyers and Manufacturers benefit from an adaptive fast-track process that helps dramatically reduce communication time between parties and helps them close transactions easily.

Thank you, David, for sharing this exciting news. Your platform is connecting retailers to a world of opportunity, allowing them to create the kind of unique footwear portfolio their customers are looking for.

If you are interested in learning more or placing an order with Italian Artisan, contact David at http://www.italian-artisan.com/

Welcome to TRU Show San Francisco

Twice a year, TRU Show hosts our footwear and accessory trade show to bring together retailers and wholesalers.  Both buyers and sales reps love this relaxed, comfortable, and convenient setting. You’ll find a wide variety of brands and styles, featuring top women’s, men’s and children’s footwear lines, as well as related accessories such as handbags and hosiery.  Enjoy this virtual tour of TRU Show San Francisco.

Registration…

Our quick and easy online registration system allows reps and buyers convenient registration for the show. Even before the show begins, we are anticipating your needs and prepared when you arrive.

Sales Representatives arrive a day or two before the show begins to set up their private suite for meetings with buyers.

The room layout allows sales reps the opportunity to set up their product displays in the living area of their suite.  Reps can personalize their space with their own shelves, lighting, signs, and logo table cloths.  Additional tables and linens can be rented for more display space.  Individual rooms allow buyers the opportunity to window shop and a private setting to discuss and write orders.

 

Let the show begin…

Sunday and Monday the show opens at 9:00 am and buyers are already lined up to preview the next season’s offerings.  Every exhibitor can display a few items from their line in our registration area.  This gives buyers a sneak peek at what they will find in the show rooms.  Team TRU welcomes them in the lobby registration area. With a badge and directory in hand, they are ready to meet with reps and write orders.

Find What You’re Looking For…

At TRU Show, exhibitors are grouped by their brand niche.  So, buyers will find multiple lines carrying the styles they are searching for all on the same floor.  This also makes it easy for new lines to be discovered.

Lunch is on us!!!

We provide all of our exhibitors and buyers with a complimentary hot lunch.

After all, it’s no fun shopping on an empty stomach.

Work should be fun…

One of the many highlights of coming to TRU show is reuniting with TRU friends.  That’s why we invite all of our reps and buyers to take part in a little friendly bowling competition and crazy sock contest.

Prizes!!!

We don’t want our buyers to go home empty handed.  So, we encourage buyers to explore all the brands and styles at TRU Show and write orders on site.  You might even receive one of the generous prizes TRU show gives out at every show.

We hope you enjoyed this virtual tour of TRU Show.

We would love to have you join us at our next event.

Exhibitors and buyers can register and find out more at http://trushow.com/

Meet Lori Markman

Lori and I caught up after her recent trip to Oaxaca, Mexico; a state known for its rich traditions and culture. Her trip coincided with the festival of the Day of the Dead, a time to honor the lives of ancestors that have passed. Celebrating life and living with a purpose is a conscious choice of Lori’s. Join us as we talk about the work Lori does for TOMS.

 

 

 

Tell me a little about your career and how you began working with TOMS.

I’ve worked in the women’s clothing industry for 35 years. TOMS is a unique brand with a distinctive niche in the shoe and clothing industry. When they launched, they looked for sales professionals who understood the close relationship between clothing, shoes, and fashion. At the time I began working with TOMS, there was just one silhouette, the slip on apalgata. Now, TOMS is a full-fledged shoe and accessory brand with a range of styles, materials, and updated labeling. With these enhancements and upscale styles, the finer contemporary boutiques are also now selling TOMS. Working with TOMS is different than just selling shoes. My work with TOMS has a purpose. It has influenced me to choose lines that are socially responsible and give my work meaning.

Can you tell me more about TOMS corporate mission?

The founder of TOMS, Blake Mycoskie, is a different kind of entrepreneur. He has an interesting business mind that is focused on how TOMS can affect change in 3^rd world countries and for those in need in the USA. By now, most consumers understand the One for One business model. For every shoe purchased, TOMS gives a pair of shoes to a child in need. TOMS has given out over 35 million pairs to date! Most people don’t know that a 3^rd of the shoes we give back are actually produced in the same country were they are given. That means, TOMS is not only giving shoes to children in need; their parents are getting jobs in our factories! And TOMS doesn’t just give a pair of shoes one time, they give that same child a new pair of shoes approximately every 6 months as they grow. That enables them to attend school and get a full education! The business model has to be sustainable, and that is why we have so many new styles and products, so that we can continue to give for generations to come.

It’s not just about shoes. TOMS portfolio of products continues to grow. Their eyewear line provides sight to someone in need by giving prescription glasses, simple medical treatment, or cataract surgery. Their new handbag division helps provide prenatal care to pregnant woman. And…TOMS coffee provides water in regions that don’t have access to safe, clean drinking water.

That’s really inspiring… you must love going to work!

After many years working as a sales rep, I am reinvigorated by work that has a purpose. Working with TOMS has influenced me to choose socially responsible lines to represent. It gives my work a deeper meaning.

I think that the Giving Trips are one of the most amazing benefits working with TOMS. You actually see what we do and how it affects families. We never just drop off a box of shoes. Someone from TOMS, or another NGO, actually gets to look in the eyes of a child and put the shoes on their feet. Having the mother thanks us personally is amazing.

Representing TOMS means long hours, many detailed reports, and accountability. I am ready and willing to jump through hoops because I know that my work is making a huge difference to people in need.

We are happy you’ve brought TOMS to TRUShow… what has been your experience coming to TRU?                                              

I’ve been with TRU Show for about 6 years. It’s a terrific show, and I am so impressed how well it is managed.

It is very well attended, and the location and set up make it convenient for buyers to shop. I get exposed to a lot of stores that I wouldn’t normally have the opportunity to work with.

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Bare Your Soul

What is your most treasured possession?

My cat, Ziggy.

What inspires you?

I am motivated by my own momentum and reputation in the industry.  The desire to continue to do the best for my customers by providing good service, represent a great product and help them continue to run a successful business.

What is your favorite time of day?

Mornings.  My quiet time with Ziggy before the day gets going, and a bit of yoga to start the day makes me very happy.

Also, my alone time, in my office, at the end of the day, when the phones have stopped ringing and I can merchandise and regroup.

What are you currently reading?

I just finished the autobiography of Graham Nash, Wild Tales; which recalls my musical roots.  Now, I’m reading a book about sustainability in the fashion industry called, Wear No Evil. 

What do you like to do on your day off?

Drive my 1950 Chrysler Imperial, Agnes, anywhere.

What is your favorite city to travel to?

Seattle, Washington. 

Who would play you in a film about your life?

Susan Sarandon.

If you had a super power, what would it be?

Travel through space without getting on a plane.  I fly way too much, and travel too little…

What is your guilty pleasure?

Being lazy.  Watching T.V.

What sound do you love?

The clanking of pool table balls, and the Ocean.

What is your favorite pair of shoes?

My LAMB boots by Gwen Stefani.

 

Thank you Lori for taking the time to share and inspire us.  You can catch up with Lori and the latest from TOMS at one of our upcoming TRU Show events.

 

Visit Shawna Rider at ShuzyQ Anchorage, Alaska

Join us for a virtual tour of ShuzyQ in Anchorage, Alaska. Shawna is a fresh talent in this business with an eye for innovative, stylish designs. You’re going to want to read more about her and the super cool store in Anchorage that offers the full range of styles to a broad spectrum of customers with a fun, hands on approach to service.

Shawna, tell me about your store…

ShuzyQ is based in downtown Anchorage, Alaska. It is a fun, funky, eclectic store. We sell everything from high heels to mud boots. Our customers span the full range of ages and styles. Often they are looking for something special and they can’t find it anywhere else. We have a special relationship with our customers. We know who they are and we cater to their individual needs. We also hope that people have fun in our store. It should feel like a party. Which is why we actually host shoe parties at our store. Another fun incentive we give our customers is a little “Shoe Sugar” with their purchase. Shoe Sugar is a 10% credit towards their next purchase. They save it up and get excited to come pick out that special pair of shoes.

What do you love about your job?

I love every part of my job.

I love the interaction with customers at the store. Each day we share our favorite story, favorite customer, or just something fun that happened that day.

I love going to the shoe shows and having the opportunity to see what’s new and exciting.

I also love the opportunity to be involved in the community. We recently held a shoe design contest.   Over 20,000 people voted online and more than 250 people came into our store to vote for the winning shoe design.   Designed locally, the winning design is now being considered for production in the Fall 2015 line with Bucketfeet.

What are you looking for when you come to TRU Show?

We’re looking for shoes that are new and innovative. We want to be the 1^st in Anchorage to carry a new brand and the best of the current brands.

How does the environment at TRU Show help you to get what you need?

TRU Show is a relaxed, pleasant environment. All the brands we are looking for are there and we often discover something new. At TRU we have more time and attention with each sales representative.

 

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Bare Your Soul

What inspires you?

Creativity.  Seeing other people who are innovating; thinking outside the box.

What historical figure do you admire?

Elizabeth Peratrovich.  As a Native Alaskan herself, she has done so much for the equality of Alaskan Natives.

What is your favorite time of day?

First thing in the morning.  I love my morning snuggles with my little 2 year old.

What are you currently reading?

The Firecracker Boys, by Dan O’Neil

What do you like to do on your day off?

Mountain Biking.

What is your favorite city to travel to?

Cusco, Peru and Segovia, Spain. 

Who would play you in a film about your life?

Oh, someone cute I hope…

What is your guilty pleasure?

Red Wine.

Where was your first job?

I was a cashier at a grocery store in Nome, Alaska.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

I would make more time in a day.

What sound do you love?

I love the feeling of sunshine and the sound of rain.

What are you wearing on your feet?

Ariat Cowboy Boots.

 

Thanks Shawna for taking the time to talk with us.  Catch up with Shawna at SuzyQ in Anchorage, Alaska or invite her to come see your footwear and accessory lines at the next TRU Show event.

Meet Ken Sollie

First appearance gives you the impression Ken grew up on the California coast, surfing in the sunshine. So, it surprised me to learn that he was born in southern Alabama before moving to Alaska as a child. A career in the shoe industry gave Ken the opportunity to make his way to the golden coast and have the lifestyle that includes all the things that matter most to him. I caught up with Ken, at his home, on one of those rare days in between trade shows and meetings with buyers.

How did you get your start in the shoe industry?

I got my start working at Nordstrom in Anchorage, Alaska. I began the trade stocking shelves.  Eventually, I worked my way up to shoe department manager.   When the opportunity arose, I moved from Alaska to open and manage Nordstrom shoe departments throughout Southern California and eventually became a buyer for the department store.  After about 15 years, I became a rep  and began selling lines to retailers.

I enjoy working with independent, family owned and operated stores. My experience gives me the ability to consult with buyers and shop owners on their business management, merchandising, and window displays.   I have a responsibility to them because I can affect their business for good or bad. So, it’s never about just getting the order. I want to be more than a one hit wonder in their stores. I want to have a lasting presence there.

Tell me more about the brand you currently represent?

I represent Latigo, a label under the Footwear Unlimited Company. Latigo embodies vintage, chic designs and a cool, raw, leather vibe.   It weaves together superior materials, stylish design and lasting comfort. The company is managed by a father/son team with solid Midwestern values and a respect for family.   It’s a great company.

What do you love about your job?

I love a lot about my job; the friendships I’ve developed with retailers and wholesalers, the travel to stores and tradeshows and helping stores achieve success. At the heart of it, it is a business that connects people. I like to be out there talking to people. I get to do that every day in this job.

How long have you been coming to TRU Show?                                               

I’ve been coming to TRU Show since its beginning. It’s a unique show that really provides a space for independent merchandisers. The show is organized by similar brand styles. So, retailers can easily browse new brands for their stores. The show layout with individual show rooms reminds me of the days when stores advertised with big window displays. Each exhibitor can set up their room to show off their lines and the retailers get to window shop the whole show.

What has been the biggest change in the shoe industry since you began?                                               

The Internet. Stores have to evolve to compete in the age of internet retailers. While the brick and mortar stores can provide excellent customer service, their customers are also prepared to shop for the best price. So, stores need to be better informed who they are competing with for the best retail price.

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Bare Your Soul

What is your most treasured possession?

I don’t place much value in material things.  The most valuable thing to me is my family.

What inspires you?

Happiness.

What is your favorite time of day?

Mornings.

What historical figure would you like to meet?

Elvis.

What are you currently reading?

Unbroken, by Laura Hillenbrand.

What is your least favorite word?

Yeah.

What is your favorite city to travel to?

Seattle. 

Who would play you in a film about your life?

Bruce Willis.

If you had a super power, what would it be?

Breathing Underwater.

What would you do on a day off?

Go Surfing.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Red Wine.

Where was your first job?

McDonald’s.

What sound do you love?

The Ocean.

What is your favorite pair of shoes?

My OluKai’s.

 

Thanks Ken for taking the time to talk with us.  Catch up with Ken and view the Latigo Brand at our next TRU Show event.

Meet Joe Siegal

During his career, Joe Siegal has worked as a shoe buyer and salesperson for over 50 years. As a professional in this industry for over half a century, he could author his own history on the shoe business. So, I felt fortunate to sit down with Joe in his show room on the final day of TRU Show in San Francisco this past August. At age 80, Joe is full of wisdom, energy, and has a terrific sense of humor.  Enjoy reading about this TRU Soul.

Joe, how did you get started in this industry? 

I started out in retail while I was going through college. I traveled the west coast as a buyer for footwear distributors in Los Angeles. Around 1958, I joined California Magdesian Bros. and represented them for almost 55 years. I retired for a couple of years to help my wife who had knee surgery. But, David Tate Shoes asked me to come back and represent their line and I happily took the opportunity.

Tell me about the David Tate brand?

The David Tate line includes women’s comfort casuals from flats to heels. We warehouse everything in Los Angeles. So, we can offer great service and the full range of sizes and widths. Many of our classic patterns have been in the line for years. Our products have broad distribution in the US and overseas in Australia, Scotland and England and are available at small retail stores to department stores and ever increasing online sales.

David Tate is a fun, family oriented company. It is run by 4 brothers, all of whom are great business people. They are also great to work with. David cooks lunch for the employees every day in the office which has been converted to a kitchen. He’s a great cook and very health conscious.

What do you love about your job?                                               

I value the friendships I’ve made over the years. You don’t lose friends in this business. It’s a very small industry. I also enjoy the challenge of working with people to enhance their business wherever possible.

If you continue to be active, the odds of maintaining a healthy and interesting life improve. I check Forbes every morning. If I’m not in it, I go to work.

How long have you been coming to TRU Show?

I’ve been coming since it started.

TRU Show answered a need. Not every buyer goes to the big shows. So, this regional show provides an opportunity for local buyers to shop for next season’s products. It’s a well run business.

When I pack for TRU Show my car is always full of samples. If my wife wants to go with me to a show, she has to run alongside.

Does your wife travel with you often?

She used to travel with me. Now, she has a life of her own at home. We’ll have been married 58 years. We have 3 kids and 6 grandkids. We all got together recently to celebrate my 80^th birthday with brunch at the Four Seasons in Westlake. My family is very important to me.

What’s been the biggest change you’ve noticed in the shoe industry over the years?

The advent of the internet has added greatly to the industry. Traditional stores need to find a way to compete in the age of internet shopping.

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Bare Your Soul

What is your most treasured possession?

My Freezer.  I’m a fisherman.  Every year I spend 10 days on a fishing boat from San Diego to Cabo San Lucas.  We hire a captain and cook and fish morning to night.  On my last trip, I caught 10 yellow fin tuna.  I came home with over 350 lbs. of filleted fish.

What is your favorite time of day?

I’m an early riser and I run every morning (from the bed to the bathroom).  My favorite time of year is spring and summer where it’s light later in the day.

What are you currently reading?

I just finished Jersey Boys.  We belong to a movie group.  So, we read the book and see the movie together.

What is your favorite word or phrase?

“I will.”

What is your favorite city to travel to?

Kauai, Hawaii and Carpinteria, California. 

Who would play you in a film about your life?

My Son, Steven.

If you had a super power, what would it be?

I love to fly.

What sound to you love?

The Violin.

What are you wearing on your feet?

Mephisto. I also like SAS and Johnston and Murphy.

Joe, thank you for taking the time to talk with us.

When he’s not fishing the open seas, you can reach Joe and learn more about the David Tate line at (805)570-7332 or jhsiegal@aol.com or meet up with him at one of our next TRU Show events

Meet Chris Fox at The Shoe Box

Steve,  Ron and Chris Fox

Chris and the Fox Family keep up the tradition of providing excellent footwear to generations at the Shoe Box.

Chris, please tell us a little bit about your store.
The Shoe Box is a family run business. My father, Ron Fox, started this store 28 years ago and it continues to be a family run business with my brother, Steve Fox, and our wives. We are a Men’s and Women’s comfort shoe store with high quality brands such as New Balance, Dansko, Naot, Birkenstock, SAS and others. We are one of the last independent shoe stores in a mall but our customers are very loyal. I like to think of ourselves as being in a hospitality business. We are taking care of people.
What are customers looking for when they come to your store?
Our customers are looking for comfort first and style second. So, when they come to our store we measure feet, the way it used to be done. We want to make sure they have the right fit and we are flexible with trends. We find them a solution for their foot care needs.
What motivates you?
We are not just selling shoes, we are helping people. And we have a strong presence in the community. Our customers know this means something more to us. We are a family in this community, so we support little leagues and school yearbooks. We want to have longevity with our customers.
How long have you been coming to TRU Show?
We’ve been coming since day 1 of TRU Show San Francisco. TRU Show is local to us. We are at the show the entire time, with appointments every hour on the hour. People give us attention at TRU Show. Because it’s a more personal show, we get a lot done. And it is convenient. We stay at the hotel where the show takes place so after show hours, we have a great opportunity to mingle and network with other retailers.

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Bare Your Soul

What inspires you?

My family.

What historical figure do you admire?

My Dad, Ron Fox. 

What is your favorite time of day?

Morning.

What is your favorite book?

The Bible.

What do you like to do on your day off?

We get a day off?

What is your least favorite word?

Can’t.

What city do you like to travel to?

Eugene, Oregon for the scenic beauty.

Who would play you in a film about your life?

Paul Giametti

Was your first job in a shoe store?

(Laughing) No, I was the last kid of 4 and I said I’d never do it.  My first job was a bag boy at a grocery store.

If you had a super power, what would it be?

Flying.

What are you wearing on your feet?

Tsubo.

Thank you Chris for taking the time to talk with us.

You can visit Chris and his family at their store, The Shoe Box, 3401 Dale Street, Modesto, California or Catch him at TRU Show San Francisco.

 

Meet David Young

David Young was on the road visiting retailers between Los Angeles and San Luis Obispo when I caught up with him to ask a few questions about the shoe business and his role as a salesperson for Frye Men’s shoes and accessories. A native to Northern California, David now resides with his family in San Diego County. He is regularly on the road visiting his clients up and down the Golden Coast.

How long have you been in the shoe business?
I started in this industry 38 years ago.

And, where did you get your start?
Selling shoes at Macy’s department store!

Tell us about the Frye Brand.
I have represented multiple shoe lines in women’s footwear for quite a while. More recently, I’ve been representing Frye men’s shoes and accessories. The Frye Company is one of the oldest US manufacturers of boots and shoes. They opened their doors in 1863 and last year celebrated their 150^th anniversary. In that time, they pioneered new materials, patterns, and even invented new machinery for making their shoes. Their style and craftsmanship have come to represent classic American style. Their mission has always been the same, “to make the best-looking, hardest-working, longest-lasting shoes and leather goods.” http://www.thefryecompany.com/

What do you love about your job?
It’s great to interact with the customer and build great working relationships. As I get to know each buyer, their store, and their customer base, I can help them assort product offerings tailored to each client. Strong client relationships and customer satisfaction are what drive me.

How long have you been coming to TRU Show?
I’ve been going to TRU Show for 6 years. It’s a great, comfortable place to meet with clients. They can get away from their stores and really spend time looking at product and making decisions. TRU Show is also a great place to meet new customers that come to the show.

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Bare Your Soul

What is your most treasured possession?

My family (David is married with two boys.)

What inspires you?

Hard Work, Getting the job done!

What historical figure do you admire?

Jackie Robinson (David is a baseball fanatic.  His favorite team…the San Francisco Giants)

What is your favorite time of day?

Dusk

What is your least favorite word?

HATE

What do you like to do on your day off?

Rest and relaxation with the family

What is your favorite city to travel to?

San Francisco

Who would play you in a film about your life?

Damon Wayans

What was your first job?

Flipping burgers at McDonald’s

What was the worst job you ever had?

I was a forklift driver.

If you had a super power, what would it be?

I’d want to be able to heal the sick.

What are you wearing on your feet?

Frye’s Phillip Harness Boots

 

Come meet David and see the FRYE brand at our next TRU Show event

 

Meet Kip Odermatt

Kip Odermatt’s decades of experience as both a shoe sales representative and retailer make him the perfect professional to interview for our very first TRU Souls featurette. He currently owns and operates 3 stores in the Stockton/Modesto area of northern California. We caught up with Kip as he cruised the open road in his RV between the Rocky Mountain Shoe Show in Colorado and Salt Lake City, Utah.

How long have you worked in the shoe industry?
I’ve been a retailer for 35 years and a shoe rep for 20 years. I started out working for Kinney Shoe Stores in 1975.
Tell us a little about your stores.
We opened our doors as a retailer in 2002. I have 3 stores. One is a Foot Solutions Store and the other two are called Shoes That Fit. We sell Euro-comfort brands that offer our customers fashionable comfort shoes with a quality fit; brands such as Finn Comfort, Earth, and Keen. We also work closely with doctors and medical facilities to sell our shoes.
What do you love about your job?
I love the industry and the people, all of the relationships I’ve made over the years. We are all in it together. It’s like a family.
How long have you been coming to TRU Show?
I’ve been with TRU Show since the beginning. It’s a great location. The set up is comfortable for everyone, buyers and exhibitors. And, it’s a great place to reunite with friends.

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Bare Your Soul

What are you wearing on your feet?

New Balance

What book are you currently reading?

Things that Matter, by Charles Krauthammer and Killing Jesus, by Bill O’Reilly

What is your least favorite word?

“NO”

What do you like to do on your day off?

I’d go hiking.

What is your favorite city to travel to?

New Orleans

If you had a super power, what would it be?

I’d like to read minds.

Who would play you in a film about your life?

Patrick Stewart

What was your first job?

I mowed lawns for $10.

Follow Kip on Twitter and Linked In or meet up with him at our next TRU Show event.