FLIP FLOP SHOPS GIFT CARDS....JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Monday, September 14, 2009
Flip Flop Shops - Exclusive Footwear Sponsor for Erica Hosseini - size 9
Media Contact: Nicole Minadeo, Fishman Public Relations, 847.945.1300, nminadeo@fishmanpr.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nation’s Leading Flip Flop Retailer Launches Partnership with Erica Hosseini
Accomplished competitive surfer becomes the new face…or feet… of Flip Flop Shops
ATLANTA – Flip Flop Shops, the nation’s first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals, has gained yet another follower in their “Free-Your-Toes” movement. This time it is accomplished competitive surfer and model Erica Hosseini who has won 5 NSSA National Titles and a variety of pro and amateur events.
The national partnership with Erica Hosseini marks the next wave of growth for Flip Flops Shops. As the new face – or should we say, new feet – of the brand, Erica will be making appearances at various charity events as well as the many locations opening across North America.
“We are excited to have such an amazing girl and athlete be a part of our brand,” said Brian Curin (size 10), the President of Flip Flop Shops. “Erica embodies the soul of our brand and truly fits our vibe. It was a perfect fit to have her represent our Free Your Toes® mentality and all that we stand for as she too likes to live, work and play with her toes exposed.”
22-year-old surfer Erica Hosseini embodies the perfect version of a California girl to represent the Flip Flop Shops brand. Her surfing prowess, which was evident at an early age, led her to make the WQS final at Lower Trestles in the Foster’s Cup in 2002 at the age of 14. This made her the youngest competitor to make the final in an ASP event at that time and she never looked back. A year later she won 5 NSSA titles and these days Hosseini is still ripping. She won the Roxy Pro Junior in 2007 and the VQS championships in 2008. She represents brands such as Sector Nine Skateboards, Jack’s Surf Shop, Casio Baby-G Watches and Sharp Eye Surfboards and now adding to the list….Flip Flop Shops.
“I am stoked to work with Flip Flop Shops and be part of their free-spirited, adventure loving, lifestyle brand, whose team is just as passionate about freeing their toes as I am,” said Erica (size 9). “I am proud to support and help grow such an evolving brand and see big things for the future.”
Selling such popular brands as Reef, Sanuk, havaianas, Flojos and O’Neill, Flip Flop Shops plans to open 236 shops across North America within five years. The company's mission is to provide the opportunity for anyone, in any climate, to "live, work and play with their toes exposed®" while wearing the freedom of flip flops on their feet. Flip flops have grown to become the "global youth uniform", as well as accepted footwear for anyone ranging from surfers to high-level corporate executives. Indeed, flip flop sales exceeded those of athletic shoes for the first time in 2006, and flip flop fever has continued to build momentum ever since.
Flip Flop Shops currently has locations operating in Arizona, California, Texas, Nevada, as well as forays into Vancouver, British Columbia and Guam. The company will soon open additional shops in Hawaii, Idaho, Utah, Florida, Tennessee, North Carolina, New Jersey, Delaware, Ohio and Edmonton, Alberta.
About Flip Flop Shops
Founded in 2004, Flip Flop Shops is the nation's first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals featuring the hottest brands and latest styles from big names such as REEF, Sanuk, Flojos, Havaianas and O’NEILL. The company began franchising in January 2008. Flip Flop Shops is an Environmentally Responsible Retailer™ and encourages the nation to free their toes. The executive team boasts more than 50 years of franchise experience building and growing some of the world's fastest-growing franchise concepts, category leaders and some of America's most well-known brands, including Cold Stone Creamery, Moe's Southwest Grill and Nike. With eleven locations currently operating and 20 more in development, the company plans to open 236 shops by 2013. For more franchise opportunity information, visit http://www.flipflopshops.com/.
About Erica Hosseni
Born in 1987, Erica Hosseni is a surfer and model from Newport Beach, CA. Hosseini began competing in the National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) at age 13. She entered her first pro event in April 2002, the Foster’s Cup at Lower Trestles, where she eventually won 2nd place and became the youngest surfer (male or female) to make the final of an ASP pro event. In 2003, she won 5 NSSA titles - Southwest Open Conference, Explorer Conference, Regionals, NSSA National Open Women’s Title, and The Governor’s Cup. In 2004 she finished 2nd in the Nationals Open Women, 1st in OP Pro, and a 3rd place bronze medal in the ISA Jr. World Championship in Tahiti. In 2005 she won 1st place at the Volcom Championships, 1st at the U.S. Championships, and 4th at the Target Pro Jr. In 2006, she placed 2nd at the Volcom Championships and 3rd in the Target Pro Jr. In 2007, she won 1st place at the Roxy Pro Jr. and in 2008 won first place at the Volcom Championships. Erica is sponsored by Flip Flop Shops, Casio Watches, Jack's Surf Shop, Sector Nine Skateboards, and Sharp Eye Surfboards.
# # #
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nation’s Leading Flip Flop Retailer Launches Partnership with Erica Hosseini
Accomplished competitive surfer becomes the new face…or feet… of Flip Flop Shops
ATLANTA – Flip Flop Shops, the nation’s first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals, has gained yet another follower in their “Free-Your-Toes” movement. This time it is accomplished competitive surfer and model Erica Hosseini who has won 5 NSSA National Titles and a variety of pro and amateur events.
The national partnership with Erica Hosseini marks the next wave of growth for Flip Flops Shops. As the new face – or should we say, new feet – of the brand, Erica will be making appearances at various charity events as well as the many locations opening across North America.
“We are excited to have such an amazing girl and athlete be a part of our brand,” said Brian Curin (size 10), the President of Flip Flop Shops. “Erica embodies the soul of our brand and truly fits our vibe. It was a perfect fit to have her represent our Free Your Toes® mentality and all that we stand for as she too likes to live, work and play with her toes exposed.”
22-year-old surfer Erica Hosseini embodies the perfect version of a California girl to represent the Flip Flop Shops brand. Her surfing prowess, which was evident at an early age, led her to make the WQS final at Lower Trestles in the Foster’s Cup in 2002 at the age of 14. This made her the youngest competitor to make the final in an ASP event at that time and she never looked back. A year later she won 5 NSSA titles and these days Hosseini is still ripping. She won the Roxy Pro Junior in 2007 and the VQS championships in 2008. She represents brands such as Sector Nine Skateboards, Jack’s Surf Shop, Casio Baby-G Watches and Sharp Eye Surfboards and now adding to the list….Flip Flop Shops.
“I am stoked to work with Flip Flop Shops and be part of their free-spirited, adventure loving, lifestyle brand, whose team is just as passionate about freeing their toes as I am,” said Erica (size 9). “I am proud to support and help grow such an evolving brand and see big things for the future.”
Selling such popular brands as Reef, Sanuk, havaianas, Flojos and O’Neill, Flip Flop Shops plans to open 236 shops across North America within five years. The company's mission is to provide the opportunity for anyone, in any climate, to "live, work and play with their toes exposed®" while wearing the freedom of flip flops on their feet. Flip flops have grown to become the "global youth uniform", as well as accepted footwear for anyone ranging from surfers to high-level corporate executives. Indeed, flip flop sales exceeded those of athletic shoes for the first time in 2006, and flip flop fever has continued to build momentum ever since.
Flip Flop Shops currently has locations operating in Arizona, California, Texas, Nevada, as well as forays into Vancouver, British Columbia and Guam. The company will soon open additional shops in Hawaii, Idaho, Utah, Florida, Tennessee, North Carolina, New Jersey, Delaware, Ohio and Edmonton, Alberta.
About Flip Flop Shops
Founded in 2004, Flip Flop Shops is the nation's first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals featuring the hottest brands and latest styles from big names such as REEF, Sanuk, Flojos, Havaianas and O’NEILL. The company began franchising in January 2008. Flip Flop Shops is an Environmentally Responsible Retailer™ and encourages the nation to free their toes. The executive team boasts more than 50 years of franchise experience building and growing some of the world's fastest-growing franchise concepts, category leaders and some of America's most well-known brands, including Cold Stone Creamery, Moe's Southwest Grill and Nike. With eleven locations currently operating and 20 more in development, the company plans to open 236 shops by 2013. For more franchise opportunity information, visit http://www.flipflopshops.com/.
About Erica Hosseni
Born in 1987, Erica Hosseni is a surfer and model from Newport Beach, CA. Hosseini began competing in the National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA) at age 13. She entered her first pro event in April 2002, the Foster’s Cup at Lower Trestles, where she eventually won 2nd place and became the youngest surfer (male or female) to make the final of an ASP pro event. In 2003, she won 5 NSSA titles - Southwest Open Conference, Explorer Conference, Regionals, NSSA National Open Women’s Title, and The Governor’s Cup. In 2004 she finished 2nd in the Nationals Open Women, 1st in OP Pro, and a 3rd place bronze medal in the ISA Jr. World Championship in Tahiti. In 2005 she won 1st place at the Volcom Championships, 1st at the U.S. Championships, and 4th at the Target Pro Jr. In 2006, she placed 2nd at the Volcom Championships and 3rd in the Target Pro Jr. In 2007, she won 1st place at the Roxy Pro Jr. and in 2008 won first place at the Volcom Championships. Erica is sponsored by Flip Flop Shops, Casio Watches, Jack's Surf Shop, Sector Nine Skateboards, and Sharp Eye Surfboards.
# # #
Monday, July 13, 2009
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Summer Shines on Flip Flop Shops!
Summer Shines on Flip Flop Shops
Niche Retail Chain Opens High-Profile Shops Worldwide
Flip Flop Shops Experiences Hot Growth as Consumers “Free Their Toes”
ATLANTA – Warm weather is here and toes that have been hiding all winter are ready to make their debut. Fortunately for consumers, and feet alike, Flip Flop Shops is opening new shops worldwide, bringing flip flop connoisseurs all the hottest brands and latest styles under one roof.
In recent weeks, Flip Flop Shops has opened in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Calif., Vancouver, BC, and Guam. All shops are featured in high-profile retail locations such as the Topanga Mall in Los Angeles, the heart of Santa Barbara on State Street, Vancouver’s surf, skate, snow mecca near the Kitsilano Beach area and the premier tourist shopping destination in Guam’s Micronesia Mall. These are in addition to the already existing shops located at Irvine Spectrum in Irvine, Calif. and in Chandler, Arizona at the Chandler Fashion Square Mall.
As the nation’s first retail chain to focus exclusively on flip flops and sandals, Flip Flop Shops shows no sign of slowing down. In fact, Flip Flop Shops is gearing up for a host of more locations this summer, including shops at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Universal Studios/City Walk in Universal City, Calif., Baybrook Mall in Houston, TX, Southplains Mall in Lubbock, TX and West Edmonton Mall in Alberta, Canada. To date, Flip Flop Shops has eight shops in operation, 20 more under development and plans to reach 236 locations by 2013.
Flip Flop Shops is actively seeking franchisees for such iconic locations as the Mall of America near the Twin Cities, Navy Pier in Chicago, Pier 39 located in San Francisco and numerous locations in some of the top malls throughout North America by Westfield, General Growth Properties, Macerich, the Simon Company and Taubman.
“Flip Flop Shops was created to fill a void in the retail industry, much like Sunglass Hut did nearly two decades ago and to promote the flip flop lifestyle and culture,” said the CEO Darin Kraetsch (size 10). “Consumers and investors have responded to Flip Flop Shops in a big way, and Flip Flop Shops has responded right back. We offer the hottest brands of flip flops and a true lifestyle brand, as well as a fun, potential-laden franchise opportunity for passionate, flip flop-minded entrepreneurs.”
Even the sight, sound and smell of Flip Flop Shops re-create the concept’s lifestyle focus and laid-back, yet adventurous character. Flip Flop Shops promotes “green” interior design, featuring recycled particle board and bamboo design elements and cork floor, and utilizes an aroma system that fills each shop with the beach-inspired scent of coconut suntan oil. Completing the ambiance, lifestyle music plays in the background, and flat screen TV’s take shoppers to active lifestyle-inspired scenes.
“Our flip flops are an extension of who we are and what we stand for,” said the President Brian Curin (size 10). “By focusing on doing right by our franchisees, our consumers and the hottest brands we carry, we have been able to develop a breakthrough brand and cult-like following, uniting flip flop lovers worldwide.”
About Flip Flop Shops
Founded in September 2004, Flip Flop Shops is the nation's first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals. The company began franchising in January 2008. Flip Flop Shops is an Environmentally Responsible Retailer and encourages the nation to free their toes. The executive team boasts more than 50 years of franchise experience building and growing some of the world's fastest-growing franchise concepts, category leaders and some of America's most well-known brands, including Cold Stone Creamery, Moe's Southwest Grill and Nike. With eight locations currently operating and 20 in development, the company plans to franchise 236 shops by 2013. For more franchise opportunity information, visit www.flipflopshops.com.
# #
Niche Retail Chain Opens High-Profile Shops Worldwide
Flip Flop Shops Experiences Hot Growth as Consumers “Free Their Toes”
ATLANTA – Warm weather is here and toes that have been hiding all winter are ready to make their debut. Fortunately for consumers, and feet alike, Flip Flop Shops is opening new shops worldwide, bringing flip flop connoisseurs all the hottest brands and latest styles under one roof.
In recent weeks, Flip Flop Shops has opened in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Calif., Vancouver, BC, and Guam. All shops are featured in high-profile retail locations such as the Topanga Mall in Los Angeles, the heart of Santa Barbara on State Street, Vancouver’s surf, skate, snow mecca near the Kitsilano Beach area and the premier tourist shopping destination in Guam’s Micronesia Mall. These are in addition to the already existing shops located at Irvine Spectrum in Irvine, Calif. and in Chandler, Arizona at the Chandler Fashion Square Mall.
As the nation’s first retail chain to focus exclusively on flip flops and sandals, Flip Flop Shops shows no sign of slowing down. In fact, Flip Flop Shops is gearing up for a host of more locations this summer, including shops at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Universal Studios/City Walk in Universal City, Calif., Baybrook Mall in Houston, TX, Southplains Mall in Lubbock, TX and West Edmonton Mall in Alberta, Canada. To date, Flip Flop Shops has eight shops in operation, 20 more under development and plans to reach 236 locations by 2013.
Flip Flop Shops is actively seeking franchisees for such iconic locations as the Mall of America near the Twin Cities, Navy Pier in Chicago, Pier 39 located in San Francisco and numerous locations in some of the top malls throughout North America by Westfield, General Growth Properties, Macerich, the Simon Company and Taubman.
“Flip Flop Shops was created to fill a void in the retail industry, much like Sunglass Hut did nearly two decades ago and to promote the flip flop lifestyle and culture,” said the CEO Darin Kraetsch (size 10). “Consumers and investors have responded to Flip Flop Shops in a big way, and Flip Flop Shops has responded right back. We offer the hottest brands of flip flops and a true lifestyle brand, as well as a fun, potential-laden franchise opportunity for passionate, flip flop-minded entrepreneurs.”
Even the sight, sound and smell of Flip Flop Shops re-create the concept’s lifestyle focus and laid-back, yet adventurous character. Flip Flop Shops promotes “green” interior design, featuring recycled particle board and bamboo design elements and cork floor, and utilizes an aroma system that fills each shop with the beach-inspired scent of coconut suntan oil. Completing the ambiance, lifestyle music plays in the background, and flat screen TV’s take shoppers to active lifestyle-inspired scenes.
“Our flip flops are an extension of who we are and what we stand for,” said the President Brian Curin (size 10). “By focusing on doing right by our franchisees, our consumers and the hottest brands we carry, we have been able to develop a breakthrough brand and cult-like following, uniting flip flop lovers worldwide.”
About Flip Flop Shops
Founded in September 2004, Flip Flop Shops is the nation's first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals. The company began franchising in January 2008. Flip Flop Shops is an Environmentally Responsible Retailer and encourages the nation to free their toes. The executive team boasts more than 50 years of franchise experience building and growing some of the world's fastest-growing franchise concepts, category leaders and some of America's most well-known brands, including Cold Stone Creamery, Moe's Southwest Grill and Nike. With eight locations currently operating and 20 in development, the company plans to franchise 236 shops by 2013. For more franchise opportunity information, visit www.flipflopshops.com.
# #
Friday, May 22, 2009
Free Your Toes...Vegas!!
The shop is not open yet, but the sign is up and lit! Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas baby!
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Friday, April 24, 2009
Friday, April 17, 2009
Flipping For Success
Flipping for Success
How to create a strong vision to lead your business toward successBy Kristy J. O’HaraSmart Business Atlanta - April 2009
Darin Kraetsch is absolutely passionate about freeing his toes as CEO of Flip Flop Shops, which specializes in selling the latest styles of flip flops and sandals year-round.
“The No. 1 thing you have to have is a passion for what it is you’re doing,” Kraetsch says. “I even made a commitment that as long as I was involved in Flip Flop Shops, I would no longer lace up. Whether it’s a fund-raiser ... or a dinner with investment bankers, you can be assured that I’ll be there in my nicest slacks, a nice coat and my best pair of flip flops.”
A huge part of being passionate about his business is making sure he knows where the company is going and then guiding his 55 employees in that direction, as well.
Smart Business spoke with Kraetsch about how to create a vision and guide your employees toward it.
Create a vision. Great entrepreneurs always have a vision for the future. Every business is like a roller coaster. It has its great days, and it has its days you can’t wait till they end. But great entrepreneurs always have the ability to see past that and see the end of the rainbow.
You have to create that vision through inspiration. You have to inspire people about what the concept or business can be, and you have to be crystal clear in defining that mission.
One of the important parts of creating that mission is to allow people to give their input. Have a team assembled that takes ownership in that vision and helps to create it. Whether you’re a vendor, manufacturer or franchisee, we ask for input from all of those people. How is it that you see this company? We’ve never claimed to know everything. We know that great ideas come from all walks of life. We have made it our mission to take all the great feedback, run it through the strainer, pick out those golden nuggets, and help to create and define our brand and vision for where we want to be.
We have no system in place, but one of the things that we have all learned is that you have to overcommunicate. We do a great job just picking up the phone. The other day I called one of our franchisees, and he’s working through this issue with financing, and I called him and wanted him to know that I was thinking about him and offered to assist in any way I could.
Through conversation, we are always asking people, ‘What do you think about this?’ It’s a fun process because people always have ideas, and there are always a handful of great ones. Sometimes you have to sift through the sand to find that one little golden nugget, but if you open the doors of communication and you’re proactively seeking input, you’re going to find the great ideas.
How to create a strong vision to lead your business toward successBy Kristy J. O’HaraSmart Business Atlanta - April 2009
Darin Kraetsch is absolutely passionate about freeing his toes as CEO of Flip Flop Shops, which specializes in selling the latest styles of flip flops and sandals year-round.
“The No. 1 thing you have to have is a passion for what it is you’re doing,” Kraetsch says. “I even made a commitment that as long as I was involved in Flip Flop Shops, I would no longer lace up. Whether it’s a fund-raiser ... or a dinner with investment bankers, you can be assured that I’ll be there in my nicest slacks, a nice coat and my best pair of flip flops.”
A huge part of being passionate about his business is making sure he knows where the company is going and then guiding his 55 employees in that direction, as well.
Smart Business spoke with Kraetsch about how to create a vision and guide your employees toward it.
Create a vision. Great entrepreneurs always have a vision for the future. Every business is like a roller coaster. It has its great days, and it has its days you can’t wait till they end. But great entrepreneurs always have the ability to see past that and see the end of the rainbow.
You have to create that vision through inspiration. You have to inspire people about what the concept or business can be, and you have to be crystal clear in defining that mission.
One of the important parts of creating that mission is to allow people to give their input. Have a team assembled that takes ownership in that vision and helps to create it. Whether you’re a vendor, manufacturer or franchisee, we ask for input from all of those people. How is it that you see this company? We’ve never claimed to know everything. We know that great ideas come from all walks of life. We have made it our mission to take all the great feedback, run it through the strainer, pick out those golden nuggets, and help to create and define our brand and vision for where we want to be.
We have no system in place, but one of the things that we have all learned is that you have to overcommunicate. We do a great job just picking up the phone. The other day I called one of our franchisees, and he’s working through this issue with financing, and I called him and wanted him to know that I was thinking about him and offered to assist in any way I could.
Through conversation, we are always asking people, ‘What do you think about this?’ It’s a fun process because people always have ideas, and there are always a handful of great ones. Sometimes you have to sift through the sand to find that one little golden nugget, but if you open the doors of communication and you’re proactively seeking input, you’re going to find the great ideas.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Nation's Leading Flip Flop Retailer Partners with Toe-rrific Charity!
Media Contact: Kristen Miller, Fishman PR, 847.945.1300, kmiller@fishmanpr.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nation’s Leading Flip Flop Retailer Partners with Toe-rrific Charity
Flips Flop Shops Joins Mission to Provide Footwear to Those in Need; Selects Soles4Souls as National Charity
ATLANTA – As the nation’s first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals, Flip Flop Shops is riding high on the soaring, cult-like popularity of flips flops and the “Free-Your-Toes” movement it is promoting from coast to coast. But for Flip Flop Shops CEO Darin Kraetsch and President Brian Curin, they have found another mission they are equally passionate about – helping to provide footwear for the millions of shoeless and footsore individuals worldwide.
To this effect, Flip Flops Shops has just announced a partnership with Soles4Souls, an international charity that has distributed more than 4 million donated pairs of new and gently used shoes to people in over 70 countries.
“Partnering with Soles4Souls was natural for us,” said Curin (size 10). “Soles4Souls reflects fundamental aspects of the Flip Flop Shops brand and culture. This decision was more than an act of corporate philanthropy; this was the alignment of two organizations that are passionate about helping those in need by providing footwear and the independence, confidence and support associated with a pair of shoes.”
Flip Flop Shops has launched a broad scale campaign to bring the partnership to fruition at existing and soon-to-open Flip Flop Shops locations throughout North America. With three shops in operation and 20 shops under development, Flip Flop Shops will promote it’s “Free Your Toes…Bring Your Soles” events by hosting shoe drives at each Grand Opening and will offer discounts to customers that donate to Soles4Souls. Flip Flop Shops anticipates collecting 10,000 pairs of shoes in 2009 for donation to Soles4Souls.
“Our partnership with Soles4Souls is another example of Doing The Right Thing,” said Kraetsch (size 10). “Doing The Right Thing is the driving force behind our culture and overall philosophy and we are proud to support such a great cause.”
To fully integrate Flip Flop Shops consumers with the Soles4Souls mission, the Soles4Souls RV Tour will stop at Flip Flop Shops locations throughout the country, spreading its excitement and goodwill to local towns. Flip Flop Shops currently has locations operating in Arizona and California, and will soon open additional franchised shops in Nevada, Idaho, Utah, Texas, Florida, Tennessee, North Carolina, New Jersey, Delaware, and Ohio; as well as forays into Vancouver, British Columbia and Guam.
Selling such popular brands as Reef, havaianas, Sanuk, Hurley and OluKai, Flip Flop Shops plans to reach 236 shops across North America within the next five years.
About Flip Flop Shops
Founded in September 2004, Flip Flop Shops is the nation's first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals. The company began franchising in January 2008. Flip Flop Shops is an Environmentally Responsible Retailer and encourages the nation to free their toes. The executive team boasts more than 50 years of franchise experience building and growing some of the world's fastest-growing franchise concepts, category leaders and some of America's most well-known brands, including Cold Stone Creamery, Moe's Southwest Grill and Nike. With three locations currently operating and 20 in development, the company plans to franchise 236 shops by 2013. For more franchise opportunity information, visit http://www.flipflopshops.com/.
About Soles4Souls
Nashville-based Soles4Souls™ facilitates the donations of both new and used shoes, which are used to aid the hurting worldwide. Soles4Souls has distributed more than 4 million pairs (currently donating one pair every 17 seconds) to people in over 70 countries, including Honduras, Uganda, Romania, and the United States. The charity has been featured recently in Runner’s World and the Green Guide by National Geographic. It has also appeared on CNN, NBC, ABC, BOX, CBS, and hundreds of regional outlets around North America. Soles4Souls is a 501(c)(3) recognized by the IRS; donating parties are eligible for tax advantages. Visit http://www.giveshoes.org/ for more information.
# # #
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nation’s Leading Flip Flop Retailer Partners with Toe-rrific Charity
Flips Flop Shops Joins Mission to Provide Footwear to Those in Need; Selects Soles4Souls as National Charity
ATLANTA – As the nation’s first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals, Flip Flop Shops is riding high on the soaring, cult-like popularity of flips flops and the “Free-Your-Toes” movement it is promoting from coast to coast. But for Flip Flop Shops CEO Darin Kraetsch and President Brian Curin, they have found another mission they are equally passionate about – helping to provide footwear for the millions of shoeless and footsore individuals worldwide.
To this effect, Flip Flops Shops has just announced a partnership with Soles4Souls, an international charity that has distributed more than 4 million donated pairs of new and gently used shoes to people in over 70 countries.
“Partnering with Soles4Souls was natural for us,” said Curin (size 10). “Soles4Souls reflects fundamental aspects of the Flip Flop Shops brand and culture. This decision was more than an act of corporate philanthropy; this was the alignment of two organizations that are passionate about helping those in need by providing footwear and the independence, confidence and support associated with a pair of shoes.”
Flip Flop Shops has launched a broad scale campaign to bring the partnership to fruition at existing and soon-to-open Flip Flop Shops locations throughout North America. With three shops in operation and 20 shops under development, Flip Flop Shops will promote it’s “Free Your Toes…Bring Your Soles” events by hosting shoe drives at each Grand Opening and will offer discounts to customers that donate to Soles4Souls. Flip Flop Shops anticipates collecting 10,000 pairs of shoes in 2009 for donation to Soles4Souls.
“Our partnership with Soles4Souls is another example of Doing The Right Thing,” said Kraetsch (size 10). “Doing The Right Thing is the driving force behind our culture and overall philosophy and we are proud to support such a great cause.”
To fully integrate Flip Flop Shops consumers with the Soles4Souls mission, the Soles4Souls RV Tour will stop at Flip Flop Shops locations throughout the country, spreading its excitement and goodwill to local towns. Flip Flop Shops currently has locations operating in Arizona and California, and will soon open additional franchised shops in Nevada, Idaho, Utah, Texas, Florida, Tennessee, North Carolina, New Jersey, Delaware, and Ohio; as well as forays into Vancouver, British Columbia and Guam.
Selling such popular brands as Reef, havaianas, Sanuk, Hurley and OluKai, Flip Flop Shops plans to reach 236 shops across North America within the next five years.
About Flip Flop Shops
Founded in September 2004, Flip Flop Shops is the nation's first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals. The company began franchising in January 2008. Flip Flop Shops is an Environmentally Responsible Retailer and encourages the nation to free their toes. The executive team boasts more than 50 years of franchise experience building and growing some of the world's fastest-growing franchise concepts, category leaders and some of America's most well-known brands, including Cold Stone Creamery, Moe's Southwest Grill and Nike. With three locations currently operating and 20 in development, the company plans to franchise 236 shops by 2013. For more franchise opportunity information, visit http://www.flipflopshops.com/.
About Soles4Souls
Nashville-based Soles4Souls™ facilitates the donations of both new and used shoes, which are used to aid the hurting worldwide. Soles4Souls has distributed more than 4 million pairs (currently donating one pair every 17 seconds) to people in over 70 countries, including Honduras, Uganda, Romania, and the United States. The charity has been featured recently in Runner’s World and the Green Guide by National Geographic. It has also appeared on CNN, NBC, ABC, BOX, CBS, and hundreds of regional outlets around North America. Soles4Souls is a 501(c)(3) recognized by the IRS; donating parties are eligible for tax advantages. Visit http://www.giveshoes.org/ for more information.
# # #
Monday, March 9, 2009
Flip Flops Wants Shop Double Take For Columbus
http://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/stories/2009/02/23/daily44.html
Friday, February 27, 2009, 8:00am EST Modified: Friday, February 27, 2009, 9:17am
Flip Flops wants store double take for Columbus
Business First of Columbus
Expect to hear the slapping of rubber on bare heel in the vicinity of Columbus-area malls. Flip Flop Shops Inc. plans to have two shops open in the area by this summer.
Franchisee Jamie Frauenberg said he is looking at Polaris Fashion Place, Easton Town Center and the Mall at Tuttle Crossing as potential destinations for the stores.
“You see stores like Lids or Sunglass Hut and those are very niche, but they’ve been around for years,” he said of merchants with a narrow retail focus.
Stores will be between 500 and 1,000 square feet, with the cash register on an island in the middle of the shop and the walls lined with flip flops – from $10 basics to $100 leather pairs with arch supports, air soles and other features.
Frauenberg, who declined to share sales projections for the stores, said he wanted to work for himself and was attracted to the vision of the Flip Flop Shops’ team.
Founders Todd Giatrelis and Sarah Towne opened the first store of the now four-shop business in 2004. CEO Darin Kraetsch, President Brian Curin and Chief Operating Officer Alan Woods took over franchising for the chain last year, which has 18 shops in development, including the two planned Columbus stores. Their goal: 236 franchised shops by 2013, including in Atlanta, New York, Orlando, Tampa and San Francisco.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Free Your Toes...Houston!
Retail
Entrepreneurs find chains worth buying into
By DAVID KAPLAN
Feb. 20, 2009
A new franchise with the motto “Free your toes” is bound for Houston.
Selling nothing but flip-flops and sandals, priced from $20 to $120, the Flip Flop Shop will open in Baybrook Mall in May.
In a time when companies are downsizing, many people may be thinking about venturing out on their own.
Some may dip their toes in franchise waters, whether it’s an unusual concept like the Flip Flop Shop or a well-known chain like McDonald’s.
A franchise is no sure thing, but opportunities do still exist in today’s rough retail environment, consultants say, if you pick the right business and a reputable franchisor.
$20 billion industry
The Houston-area franchisee for the Flip Flop Shop is Anna Ruhl, who also owns Clear Lake Body Shop.
She picked the Flip Flop Shop as her first franchise venture because the concept fits her personality, she said.
In a $20 billion flip-flop industry, Flip Flop Shop is the only retailer to specialize in flip-flops, a hot trend, said Brian Curin, president of Atlanta-based Flip Flop Shops Holdings. His company has four stores, two in California and two in Arizona.
Its first six franchises are set to open in the next three months.
The chain’s line of flip-flops, which include leading brands such as Reef, Hurley and O’Neill, sell on average for $45. Higher-priced flip-flops by Havaianas are embedded with Swarovski crystals.
Flip Flop Shops carry the scent of coconut oil and feature cork flooring and bamboo counters and a surf and ski theme.
After opening her first Flip Flop store in Baybrook Mall, Ruhl said she plans to open her next location in The Woodlands a few months later. Her goal is to open two stores a year.
Trouble with funding
Given the unstable job market, franchisors are having no problem attracting potential franchisees, said Mary Tomzack, president of Franchise Help, a franchise consulting company near New York City.
The franchise industry is having difficulty, however, finding lenders to help franchisees with funding, she said.
Ruhl had the advantage of owning another business, which gave her a solid relationship with her bank, which helped her open.
The franchise fee is $25,000. She’s expecting to spend another $100,000 to $150,000 to get the business up and running.
The funding challenge faced by potential franchisees “hasn’t impacted us too much, but we hear about it all the time. It is tough out there,” said Curin, who with his partners also launched Cold Stone Creamery and Moe’s Southwest Grill franchises.
When looking for a franchise, it’s advisable to consider the ones in “recession-resistant categories,” including service businesses like home improvement and senior care, said Lori Kiser-Block, president of FranChoice, a Minneapolis-based franchise consulting company.
She noted that McDonald’s franchises have been performing particularly well lately.
Fast food and tax help
Other fast-food franchises, lower-end casual restaurants and tax services are doing well, Tomzack said, although some of those that she describes as “I can do it myself” services like house cleaning are struggling.
“The franchise industry is fraught with danger and failures,” and people should do lots of homework before buying a franchise, said Nick Bibby, president of bibbygroup.com in Shreveport, La.
Unfortunately, less than 30 percent of franchisors provide performance numbers on their franchise models, he said. They are not required to by law.
The first thing a potential franchisee should do is “decide what you’re suited for,” Bibby said.
david.kaplan@chron.com
Entrepreneurs find chains worth buying into
By DAVID KAPLAN
Feb. 20, 2009
A new franchise with the motto “Free your toes” is bound for Houston.
Selling nothing but flip-flops and sandals, priced from $20 to $120, the Flip Flop Shop will open in Baybrook Mall in May.
In a time when companies are downsizing, many people may be thinking about venturing out on their own.
Some may dip their toes in franchise waters, whether it’s an unusual concept like the Flip Flop Shop or a well-known chain like McDonald’s.
A franchise is no sure thing, but opportunities do still exist in today’s rough retail environment, consultants say, if you pick the right business and a reputable franchisor.
$20 billion industry
The Houston-area franchisee for the Flip Flop Shop is Anna Ruhl, who also owns Clear Lake Body Shop.
She picked the Flip Flop Shop as her first franchise venture because the concept fits her personality, she said.
In a $20 billion flip-flop industry, Flip Flop Shop is the only retailer to specialize in flip-flops, a hot trend, said Brian Curin, president of Atlanta-based Flip Flop Shops Holdings. His company has four stores, two in California and two in Arizona.
Its first six franchises are set to open in the next three months.
The chain’s line of flip-flops, which include leading brands such as Reef, Hurley and O’Neill, sell on average for $45. Higher-priced flip-flops by Havaianas are embedded with Swarovski crystals.
Flip Flop Shops carry the scent of coconut oil and feature cork flooring and bamboo counters and a surf and ski theme.
After opening her first Flip Flop store in Baybrook Mall, Ruhl said she plans to open her next location in The Woodlands a few months later. Her goal is to open two stores a year.
Trouble with funding
Given the unstable job market, franchisors are having no problem attracting potential franchisees, said Mary Tomzack, president of Franchise Help, a franchise consulting company near New York City.
The franchise industry is having difficulty, however, finding lenders to help franchisees with funding, she said.
Ruhl had the advantage of owning another business, which gave her a solid relationship with her bank, which helped her open.
The franchise fee is $25,000. She’s expecting to spend another $100,000 to $150,000 to get the business up and running.
The funding challenge faced by potential franchisees “hasn’t impacted us too much, but we hear about it all the time. It is tough out there,” said Curin, who with his partners also launched Cold Stone Creamery and Moe’s Southwest Grill franchises.
When looking for a franchise, it’s advisable to consider the ones in “recession-resistant categories,” including service businesses like home improvement and senior care, said Lori Kiser-Block, president of FranChoice, a Minneapolis-based franchise consulting company.
She noted that McDonald’s franchises have been performing particularly well lately.
Fast food and tax help
Other fast-food franchises, lower-end casual restaurants and tax services are doing well, Tomzack said, although some of those that she describes as “I can do it myself” services like house cleaning are struggling.
“The franchise industry is fraught with danger and failures,” and people should do lots of homework before buying a franchise, said Nick Bibby, president of bibbygroup.com in Shreveport, La.
Unfortunately, less than 30 percent of franchisors provide performance numbers on their franchise models, he said. They are not required to by law.
The first thing a potential franchisee should do is “decide what you’re suited for,” Bibby said.
david.kaplan@chron.com
Friday, February 20, 2009
Flip Flop Shops Exposes Toes Worldwide!
Flip Flop Shops Exposes Toes Worldwide Through Social Media Networking
“The Vibe” Keeps the “Free-Your-Toes” Movement Alive Press Release
ATLANTA – With the social networking craze showing no sings of slowing down, Flip Flop Shops President Brian Curin and CEO Darin Kraetsch jumped on board to promote the “Free-Your-Toes” movement that they are so passionate about.
Flip Flop Shops, the nation’s first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals, recently introduced a new page to their website titled “the Vibe.” The page contains a variety of social media outlets, including MySpace, Facebook, Twitter and Blogger. By creating a Twitter account titled the Flip Flop Life, complete with characters Jack and Freeman, Curin and Kraetsch have the ability to communicate with flip flop lovers throughout the world and share stories of their adventures.
“We get that today’s generation communicates almost solely via social media outlets,” said Curin (size 10). “The Vibe is designed to expose our passion for flip flops and the lifestyle they promote, while launching our ‘Free-Your-Toes’ Movement to a vast audience in hopes of networking to followers.”
Selling such popular brands as Reef, havaianas, O’Neill, Hurley and OluKai, Flip Flop Shops plans to reach 236 shops across North America within five years. Thanks to Hawaiian-based band Go Jimmy Go, the company has their own theme song, “Flip Flop” - an infectious blend of reggae rhythms and cool, original melodies – which is played at every shop. In addition to the sound, even the smell of each Flip Flop Shops shop captures the laid-back, yet adventurous character of the brand. Approaching from 15 feet away, coconut suntan oil scent and active lifestyle inspired music beckons to consumers.
“We encourage Flip Flop Shops customers, franchise owners and the leadership team to get involved in this project as they all have a strong appreciation for the active lifestyle and laid-back attitude we believe in,” added Kraetsch (size 10). “We also want flip flop lovers everywhere to visit ‘the Vibe’, submit some of their favorite lifestyle flip flop-pix and join the Movement. The more people we connect with our ‘Free-Your-Toes’ mantra, the greater impact we will have on the world.”
About Flip Flop Shops Founded in September 2004, Flip Flop Shops is the nation's first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals. The company began franchising in January 2008. Flip Flop Shops is an Environmentally Responsible Retailer and encourages the nation to free their toes. The executive team boasts more than 50 years of franchise experience building and growing some of the world's fastest-growing franchise concepts, category leaders and some of America's most well-known brands, including Cold Stone Creamery, Moe's Southwest Grill and Nike. With four locations currently operating and 18 in development, the company plans to franchise 236 stores by 2013. For more franchise opportunity information, visit www.flipflopshops.com.
“The Vibe” Keeps the “Free-Your-Toes” Movement Alive Press Release
ATLANTA – With the social networking craze showing no sings of slowing down, Flip Flop Shops President Brian Curin and CEO Darin Kraetsch jumped on board to promote the “Free-Your-Toes” movement that they are so passionate about.
Flip Flop Shops, the nation’s first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals, recently introduced a new page to their website titled “the Vibe.” The page contains a variety of social media outlets, including MySpace, Facebook, Twitter and Blogger. By creating a Twitter account titled the Flip Flop Life, complete with characters Jack and Freeman, Curin and Kraetsch have the ability to communicate with flip flop lovers throughout the world and share stories of their adventures.
“We get that today’s generation communicates almost solely via social media outlets,” said Curin (size 10). “The Vibe is designed to expose our passion for flip flops and the lifestyle they promote, while launching our ‘Free-Your-Toes’ Movement to a vast audience in hopes of networking to followers.”
Selling such popular brands as Reef, havaianas, O’Neill, Hurley and OluKai, Flip Flop Shops plans to reach 236 shops across North America within five years. Thanks to Hawaiian-based band Go Jimmy Go, the company has their own theme song, “Flip Flop” - an infectious blend of reggae rhythms and cool, original melodies – which is played at every shop. In addition to the sound, even the smell of each Flip Flop Shops shop captures the laid-back, yet adventurous character of the brand. Approaching from 15 feet away, coconut suntan oil scent and active lifestyle inspired music beckons to consumers.
“We encourage Flip Flop Shops customers, franchise owners and the leadership team to get involved in this project as they all have a strong appreciation for the active lifestyle and laid-back attitude we believe in,” added Kraetsch (size 10). “We also want flip flop lovers everywhere to visit ‘the Vibe’, submit some of their favorite lifestyle flip flop-pix and join the Movement. The more people we connect with our ‘Free-Your-Toes’ mantra, the greater impact we will have on the world.”
About Flip Flop Shops Founded in September 2004, Flip Flop Shops is the nation's first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals. The company began franchising in January 2008. Flip Flop Shops is an Environmentally Responsible Retailer and encourages the nation to free their toes. The executive team boasts more than 50 years of franchise experience building and growing some of the world's fastest-growing franchise concepts, category leaders and some of America's most well-known brands, including Cold Stone Creamery, Moe's Southwest Grill and Nike. With four locations currently operating and 18 in development, the company plans to franchise 236 stores by 2013. For more franchise opportunity information, visit www.flipflopshops.com.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Flip Flop Shops Tribute Song!
Media Contact: Mike Misetic, Fishman Public Relations, 847.945.1300 ext. 241, mmisetic@fishmanpr.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Flip Flop Shops Celebrates Free-Spirited, Adventure-Loving Lifestyle Brand with New Tribute Song
Go Jimmy Go, Island-Sound Encourages “Free Your Toes” Mentality
ATLANTA – When Flip Flop Shops President Brian Curin attended the Kokua music Festival in Hawaii last spring, he knew he had found the musical embodiment of the Flip Flop Shops brand as soon as Go Jimmy Go took the stage.
Curin was an immediate fan of the Hawaiian-based band’s island sound – an infectious blend of reggae rhythms and cool, original melodies. In an opportune twist of fate, Go Jimmy Go band member Eric White expressed his excitement for Flip Flop Shops and interest in recording a tribute song for the nation’s first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals. The song, “Flip Flop,” will be playing in Flip Flop Shops boutiques throughout North America, and on the Web site. Lucky fans may even hear it on the next Go Jimmy Go album.
“We dig the Free Your Toes movement that Flip Flop Shops promotes,” said White. “Flip flops represent our laid-back, fun-loving island attitude and we are extremely excited to have our music heard by millions of consumers who are just as passionate about freeing their toes as we are.”
Selling such popular brands as Reef, havaianas, Roxy, Hurley and OluKai, Flip Flop Shops plans to reach 236 stores across North America within five years. In addition to the sound, even the smell of each Flip Flop Shops store captures the laid-back, yet adventurous character of the brand. Approaching from 15 feet away, coconut suntan oil scent and active lifestyle inspired music, including Go Jimmy Go, beckons to consumers.
“We recognize that Flip Flop Shops customers, franchise owners and the leadership team all have a strong appreciation for music that reflects our active lifestyle and laid-back attitude,” said Curin (size 10). “Having a super-talented group like Go Jimmy Go record a song about what we are most passionate about allows us to share the type of music that is conducive to the Flip Flop Shops shopping experience with the rest of the world.”
“The Flip Flop song is a great addition to the sensory experience we provide to our consumers while visiting our shops,” added company CEO Darin Kraetsch.
About Flip Flop Shops
Founded in September 2004, Flip Flop Shops is the nation's first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals. The company began franchising in January 2008. Flip Flop Shops is an Environmentally Responsible Retailer and encourages the nation to free their toes. The executive team boasts more than 50 years of franchise experience building and growing some of the world's fastest-growing franchise concepts, category leaders and some of America's most well-known brands, including Cold Stone Creamery, Moe's Southwest Grill and Nike. With five locations currently operating and 15 in development, the company plans to franchise 236 stores by 2013. For more franchise opportunity information, visit www.flipflopshops.com.
# # #
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Flip Flop Shops Celebrates Free-Spirited, Adventure-Loving Lifestyle Brand with New Tribute Song
Go Jimmy Go, Island-Sound Encourages “Free Your Toes” Mentality
ATLANTA – When Flip Flop Shops President Brian Curin attended the Kokua music Festival in Hawaii last spring, he knew he had found the musical embodiment of the Flip Flop Shops brand as soon as Go Jimmy Go took the stage.
Curin was an immediate fan of the Hawaiian-based band’s island sound – an infectious blend of reggae rhythms and cool, original melodies. In an opportune twist of fate, Go Jimmy Go band member Eric White expressed his excitement for Flip Flop Shops and interest in recording a tribute song for the nation’s first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals. The song, “Flip Flop,” will be playing in Flip Flop Shops boutiques throughout North America, and on the Web site. Lucky fans may even hear it on the next Go Jimmy Go album.
“We dig the Free Your Toes movement that Flip Flop Shops promotes,” said White. “Flip flops represent our laid-back, fun-loving island attitude and we are extremely excited to have our music heard by millions of consumers who are just as passionate about freeing their toes as we are.”
Selling such popular brands as Reef, havaianas, Roxy, Hurley and OluKai, Flip Flop Shops plans to reach 236 stores across North America within five years. In addition to the sound, even the smell of each Flip Flop Shops store captures the laid-back, yet adventurous character of the brand. Approaching from 15 feet away, coconut suntan oil scent and active lifestyle inspired music, including Go Jimmy Go, beckons to consumers.
“We recognize that Flip Flop Shops customers, franchise owners and the leadership team all have a strong appreciation for music that reflects our active lifestyle and laid-back attitude,” said Curin (size 10). “Having a super-talented group like Go Jimmy Go record a song about what we are most passionate about allows us to share the type of music that is conducive to the Flip Flop Shops shopping experience with the rest of the world.”
“The Flip Flop song is a great addition to the sensory experience we provide to our consumers while visiting our shops,” added company CEO Darin Kraetsch.
About Flip Flop Shops
Founded in September 2004, Flip Flop Shops is the nation's first retail chain exclusive to flip flops and sandals. The company began franchising in January 2008. Flip Flop Shops is an Environmentally Responsible Retailer and encourages the nation to free their toes. The executive team boasts more than 50 years of franchise experience building and growing some of the world's fastest-growing franchise concepts, category leaders and some of America's most well-known brands, including Cold Stone Creamery, Moe's Southwest Grill and Nike. With five locations currently operating and 15 in development, the company plans to franchise 236 stores by 2013. For more franchise opportunity information, visit www.flipflopshops.com.
# # #
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