New location, a long-time independent looking for new ideas

To DMV NT,

Greetings, my name is Jason I'm the general manager for Sports Town.  We've been located in Silver Spring, MD for over 20 years, and we are opening a new location in Langley Park, MD.  We carry brands like Nike, Jordan, Timberland, Puma, and Converse.

This new location has an elevated retail presentation, and we will do our best to bring in top brands and trending styles. I'm posting today to find out what passionate sneakerheads are looking for when they step into their local shop.

Sports Town opened in 1992, and is a true neighborhood store focusing on urban family footwear.  As we expand to a new location in a new neighborhood we are looking for innovative ideas to catapult our new location.

I'm asking for your input!  Do you want to see midnight releases?  What do you think is the best way to release limited items?  (Tickets, first come first serve?)  Please let me know anything and everything that you like or dislike about sneaker stores.

Our showroom is currently open, but please be aware that we're still working to be 100% finished.  Below you will find some photos and our contact information. With some luck,  I hope to see some NTers in the shop the next few weeks!

Sports Town @ Langley Park

7947 New Hampshire Ave, Hyattsville MD 20783 (Intersection of University Blvd and New Hampshire Ave.)

Phone: 240.670.7743
Instagram: @sportstowndmv

I will go first:  I wanted to know what y'all think about doing buy/sell/trade events in our showroom?  I would reserve certain days of the month for meet-ups where you can come with items you are looking to sell/trade.  A DJ and refreshments would be provided for your consumption .

Regards,
J

Def not a bad idea.

I think you will attract interest.

winrockywin said:

I will go first:  I wanted to know what y'all think about doing buy/sell/trade events in our showroom?  I would reserve certain days of the month for meet-ups where you can come with items you are looking to sell/trade.  A DJ and refreshments would be provided for your consumption .

Regards,

J

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First off the build out looks really good. An attractive spot and, no offense, 100x better looking than your city place spot.

That place wasn't that friendly, AND if you didn't personally know the staff you typically got the cold shoulder.

I also noticed that regulars got good treatment (shoes held, hookups/discos, etc) which is fair, so hopefully NTers can build rapport with the new shop/location/management.

Midnight releases in LP are probably NOT a good idea, so maybe having a VIP/preferred customer/Reservation process could work, just an idea.

The B/S/T idea is a good one, and it could definitely work. Maybe after the shop closes on weekend night, or as mentioned, a reserved day.

Props for opening a location in very diverse area, I plan on visiting soon.

B Fresco said:

First off the build out looks really good. An attractive spot and, no offense, 100x better looking than your city place spot.

That place wasn't that friendly, AND if you didn't personally know the staff you typically got the cold shoulder.

I also noticed that regulars got good treatment (shoes held, hookups/discos, etc) which is fair, so hopefully NTers can build rapport with the new shop/location/management.

Midnight releases in LP are probably NOT a good idea, so maybe having a VIP/preferred customer/Reservation process could work, just an idea.

The B/S/T idea is a good one, and it could definitely work. Maybe after the shop closes on weekend night, or as mentioned, a reserved day.

Props for opening a location in very diverse area, I plan on visiting soon.

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Appreciate the compliments, its even better in person, and will be improved as we get closer to 100%.  Our original location (City Place) will undergo a complete redevelopment in the future as well.

I apologize if you had a poor experience in the past, hopefully you just caught us on a bad day.  As for releases, these days we've become very strict and try to maintain 100% integrity to the "first-come-first-serve" and "only one pair per customer" policy.  This is in hopes of providing the limited pairs to the customers who brave ****** weather and little sleep on release days.  With this in mind, sometimes bitter feelings will form as we are absolutely unable to provide for EVERY single person.

As for the midnight release, I should disclose that we will be doing it primarily to generate some buzz around our new location (if it's something that people feel good about doing, we can keep doing it also).  If it does occur I plan on having a number of off-duty police securing the event, so I feel, and hope you will feel, comfortable with the security.

With regard to B/S/T I'd like to provide a secure and exciting platform that can empower sneaker consumers.  I will usually be here most days, so stop in and say hello.

Cheers,
J

What Nike account does your store have?

Also store looks

PiNoyBOy said:

Also store looks

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PiNoyBOy said:

What Nike account does your store have?

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1) Thanks for the kind words!

2) Please clarify, don't understand the question.

And to anyone interested, we are inching closer to doing a midnight release for one of this month's Jordan Retros.  I will post more info as plans are set, and you can find more information on our instagram @sportstowndmv.

Regards,
J

winrockywin said:

 
I will go first:  I wanted to know what y'all think about doing buy/sell/trade events in our showroom?  I would reserve certain days of the month for meet-ups where you can come with items you are looking to sell/trade.  A DJ and refreshments would be provided for your consumption .

Regards,
J

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I don't sell shoes, but a B/S would be pretty cool with local DJ's spinning for the customers.  Nice way to get your new location out there, have a DJ from a local radio station do a broadcast for a few hours.  I remember Up Against The Wall across from Howard University use to do that back in the day.  I REALLY like the simplistic but still inviting look of your store.  I always hate going into retail stores and seeing stuff covering every wall, overwhelming at first.

I like the idea of doing a raffle, however they are often compromised by the staff conducting the raffle.  If you could guarantee that they are fairly done, I don't think people will be as upset for loosing out on a pair.  Raffles should be done across the board, men and GS sizes.  The Foot Action by my house screwed up the Bel Air 5 release by not doing a raffle for GS sizes.

I like the idea of having an elite or loyalty program for your customers, allowing those members an opportunity to pick up a new release on a FCFS basis.  However loyalty members would not be allowed to participate in raffles for the same shoes.  Otherwise you run the risk of them getting two pairs of shoes.  As I type this I just thought perhaps have levels within the loyalty program, with your 'platinum" or "all star" customers being able to reserve a pair of shoes for say a $10/$15 markup.  They avoid the headache of having to wait in line with the FCFS members, and don't have to worry about a raffle.  Also the store benefits a little more off the immediate sale by the small markup, less than a reseller would charge for the shoe.  Yet still insignificant enough that the buyer isn't upset for the markup.

Perhaps have a early preview of the shoe where people can come and check out a new release, they can't buy it just look at the fit and finish of it.  For example when the Fear 5's pictures surfaced, I was all over them.  Once I saw them in person and actually held them in my hand, while down in Miami.  I passed on them.  I don't think a midnight release would be that bad, as long as the police are present.  Police have been more common at shoe releases as it is, give them a heads up ahead of time.  They will usually patrol or just park and talk to another officer while everyone is inline.

Another thing is you might want to reach out to some of the local small business, customizers, sole swaps, shoe restoration and have them showcase what they can do.  I am in VA but will more than likely stop by the store this weekend and check it out.  I will provide more feedback once I actually walk the store.

PiNoyBOy said:

What Nike account does your store have?

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Good question this will certainly determine the amount of clients coming in and out of the store, as well as type.

winrockywin said:

 
1) Thanks for the kind words!

2) Please clarify, don't understand the question.

And to anyone interested, we are inching closer to doing a midnight release for one of this month's Jordan Retros.  I will post more info as plans are set, and you can find more information on our instagram @sportstowndmv.

Regards,
J

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I believe he just means what signature lines of Nike shoes can you get, Jordans, Kobe's, LeBron's, Durant's.  Which Jordans can you get, IE Bel Air 5's, Grape 5's, DB 5's.  Also which SC Trainers can you get the Calvin Johnson Megatron pack for example, I don't think you will know until Nike informs you though.

I hope that isn't a midnight release for the 3lab5's, because it will be quite crazy out that night.

TitanG545 said:

 
I like the idea of doing a raffle, however they are often compromised by the staff conducting the raffle.  If you could guarantee that they are fairly done, I don't think people will be as upset for loosing out on a pair.  Raffles should be done across the board, men and GS sizes.  The Foot Action by my house screwed up the Bel Air 5 release by not doing a raffle for GS sizes.

I like the idea of having an elite or loyalty program for your customers, allowing those members an opportunity to pick up a new release on a FCFS basis.  However loyalty members would not be allowed to participate in raffles for the same shoes.  Otherwise you run the risk of them getting two pairs of shoes.  As I type this I just thought perhaps have levels within the loyalty program, with your 'platinum" or "all star" customers being able to reserve a pair of shoes for say a $10/$15 markup.  They avoid the headache of having to wait in line with the FCFS members, and don't have to worry about a raffle.  Also the store benefits a little more off the immediate sale by the small markup, less than a reseller would charge for the shoe.  Yet still insignificant enough that the buyer isn't upset for the markup.

Perhaps have a early preview of the shoe where people can come and check out a new release, they can't buy it just look at the fit and finish of it.  For example when the Fear 5's pictures surfaced, I was all over them.  Once I saw them in person and actually held them in my hand, while down in Miami.  I passed on them.  I don't think a midnight release would be that bad, as long as the police are present.  Police have been more common at shoe releases as it is, give them a heads up ahead of time.  They will usually patrol or just park and talk to another officer while everyone is inline.

Another thing is you might want to reach out to some of the local small business, customizers, sole swaps, shoe restoration and have them showcase what they can do.  I am in VA but will more than likely stop by the store this weekend and check it out.  I will provide more feedback once I actually walk the store.

Good question this will certainly determine the amount of clients coming in and out of the store, as well as type.

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A lot of interesting thoughts here, I will think about all of them.  I will say that figuring out the fairest way to sell release shoes is a struggle.  Due to the fact that all these styles are heavily allocated (limited pairs) it's impossible to get everyone a pair.  We've tried everything that's been done except an online RSVP system.  I like raffles, but I don't like the idea of doing it the day of the release.  Say you get 40 people, and 12 pairs...that means 28 people who don't win will have wasted ample time to try to buy from other sources.  That's my only hang up with raffles - maybe if someone has some ideas of how to conduct a transparent selection ahead of the actual selling date that might be the way to go. 

Hopefully I do not disappoint y'all...but full disclosure: we will never have a loyalty program tied to release items.  As a long time retailer of Nike and Jordan products the number one goal is to provide a balanced and fair way to release legacy/exclusive product to all consumers.  These styles drive the industry which inevitable keep me in business, so my philosophy is the door always has to be open for anyone to have an opportunity to purchase these styles. 

With that being said, I'm always ready to do promotions and loyalty programs for general merchandise.  I will do one right now: Anyone that comes to the shop and tells me they're from DMV Niketalk will get 15% off any Nike/Jordan Apparel and Accessories.

Thanks for your responses, I promise we will do our best to deliver/incorporate your feedback.

winrockywin said:

 
A lot of interesting thoughts here, I will think about all of them.  I will say that figuring out the fairest way to sell release shoes is a struggle.  Due to the fact that all these styles are heavily allocated (limited pairs) it's impossible to get everyone a pair.  We've tried everything that's been done except an online RSVP system.  I like raffles, but I don't like the idea of doing it the day of the release.  Say you get 40 people, and 12 pairs...that means 28 people who don't win will have wasted ample time to try to buy from other sources.  That's my only hang up with raffles - maybe if someone has some ideas of how to conduct a transparent selection ahead of the actual selling date that might be the way to go. 

Hopefully I do not disappoint y'all...but full disclosure: we will never have a loyalty program tied to release items.  As a long time retailer of Nike and Jordan products the number one goal is to provide a balanced and fair way to release legacy/exclusive product to all consumers.  These styles drive the industry which inevitable keep me in business, so my philosophy is the door always has to be open for anyone to have an opportunity to purchase these styles. 

With that being said, I'm always ready to do promotions and loyalty programs for general merchandise.  I will do one right now: Anyone that comes to the shop and tells me they're from DMV Niketalk will get 15% off any Nike/Jordan Apparel and Accessories.

Thanks for your responses, I promise we will do our best to deliver/incorporate your feedback.

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Foot Locker and Foot Action require people to pick up the tickets Wednesday and Thursday.  Thursday being the cut off, they pick who they want...  I mean randomly select people for the raffle and call them the Friday before the release.  Personally I would rather Monday and Tuesday be the days to get your tickets, and call on Wednesday or Thursday.  Leaving people Thursday and Friday to either camp out if allowed or figure out another place to buy them.  I have even heard of other Foot Locker or Foot Action locations doing raffles 2 weeks before the shoe is even released, giving people a week to try and secure a pair by other means.

I guess I will have to come through this weekend and pickup a shirt or something from you guys.

TitanG545 said:

 
I believe he just means what signature lines of Nike shoes can you get, Jordans, Kobe's, LeBron's, Durant's.  Which Jordans can you get, IE Bel Air 5's, Grape 5's, DB 5's.  Also which SC Trainers can you get the Calvin Johnson Megatron pack for example, I don't think you will know until Nike informs you though.

I hope that isn't a midnight release for the 3lab5's, because it will be quite crazy out that night.

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I wish I could carry everything.  Most of the shoes you just listed are carried/ were carried only in Nike stores, and the top boutiques.  As you may or may not know, all release decisions are made on a store-by-store basis.  We've had years where we didn't miss a beat, and then there are years where we haven't been able to acquire certain styles.  It's become a part of the business....while it's very transparent for me as a retailer, for the consumer the segmentation isn't as clear.

Sneaker releases drive the demand for shoes, but our business isn't solely hyped releases.  It's been a long 20 years, and the business is constantly evolving. I'm thankful to be a part of it, and partners like Nike, Jordan, New Balance, Timberland, etc enable us to stay a part of it. 

For what it's worth, we will constantly be doing our best to stay current with the release calendar.  That means being innovative and maintaining a visible presence in the community (a prime reason I wanted to gather feedback from DMV NT).  If you co-sign, support, I'm certain the releases will come .

Tentatively this month we'll be releasing:  Retro 12 (Taxi), Retro 11 (Gamma), Ewings 33 (Purple & Tan)  Once everything is confirmed I will post again . 

Cheers

winrockywin said:

 
I wish I could carry everything.  Most of the shoes you just listed are carried/ were carried only in Nike stores, and the top boutiques.  As you may or may not know, all release decisions are made on a store-by-store basis.  We've had years where we didn't miss a beat, and then there are years where we haven't been able to acquire certain styles.  It's become a part of the business....while it's very transparent for me as a retailer, for the consumer the segmentation isn't as clear.

Sneaker releases drive the demand for shoes, but our business isn't solely hyped releases.  It's been a long 20 years, and the business is constantly evolving. I'm thankful to be a part of it, and partners like Nike, Jordan, New Balance, Timberland, etc enable us to stay a part of it. 

For what it's worth, we will constantly be doing our best to stay current with the release calendar.  That means being innovative and maintaining a visible presence in the community (a prime reason I wanted to gather feedback from DMV NT).  If you co-sign, support, I'm certain the releases will come .

Tentatively this month we'll be releasing:  Retro 12 (Taxi), Retro 11 (Gamma), Ewings 33 (Purple & Tan)  Once everything is confirmed I will post again . 

Cheers

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Oh it wasn't my intention to call out what you couldn't get, simply using examples to further clarify the initial question.

Are you guys hiring

saint cellus said:

Are you guys hiring

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No, we are not hiring at this time.  We will accept resumes anytime should positions open up in the future. I am looking for an experienced event photographer.  If there is anyone who fits this description please don't hesitate to message me. 

TitanG545 said:

 
Oh it wasn't my intention to call out what you couldn't get, simply using examples to further clarify the initial question.

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No mix up here, just trying to explain the situation.  I can confirm that we will be releasing the Taxi 12s, and the Gamma 11.  Still waiting on confirmation of the Ewings.

TitanG545 said:

 
Foot Locker and Foot Action require people to pick up the tickets Wednesday and Thursday.  Thursday being the cut off, they pick who they want...  I mean randomly select people for the raffle and call them the Friday before the release.  Personally I would rather Monday and Tuesday be the days to get your tickets, and call on Wednesday or Thursday.  Leaving people Thursday and Friday to either camp out if allowed or figure out another place to buy them.  I have even heard of other Foot Locker or Foot Action locations doing raffles 2 weeks before the shoe is even released, giving people a week to try and secure a pair by other means.

I guess I will have to come through this weekend and pickup a shirt or something from you guys.

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I'd be up to giving something like this a try.  The only issue I have is I'd like any process to be 100% transparent -calling back raffle winners seems vulnerable to manipulation- but I guess if you give people enough time to prepare for alternatives then it might be kosher.

With the advent of Instagram video, maybe I could record results and post on Instagram.  I have the ability to do a livestream, but we're new so I doubt anyone would be around to watch it .

I'd like to see fcfs but with organization, no ghost chairs, talking hard body camping

PiNoyBOy said:

I'd like to see fcfs but with organization, no ghost chairs, talking hard body camping

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Sounds gritty...lol.

That's what we normally do for release shoes.  One or two police officers and a line. 

Yeah but are you gonna pay 2 officers to stand there from 6-7 pm to midnite if you get an exclusive/limited release?

Also, all it takes is ONE knucklehead to ruin it for the rest of the honest folks that just want some sneakers.

I hope you guys can execute the midnight releases effectively and fairly.

Good luck.

I def plan on stopping by this weekend.

Sidenote: In the pics and in your posts, it seems as though you carry a lot of Nike apparel. Do you have access to NSW releases/tech apparel? Just curious.

Release the shoe mid day. Don't tell sales associates when you plan to drop.

Makes me think of Wednesday Jordan releases.

MinionMarc said:

 
Release the shoe mid day. Don't tell sales associates when you plan to drop.

Makes me think of Wednesday Jordan releases.

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Midday?  If people know the shoes are being released they will still come through that day, it's not like they can surprise us with a release date.

B Fresco said:

Yeah but are you gonna pay 2 officers to stand there from 6-7 pm to midnite if you get an exclusive/limited release?

Also, all it takes is ONE knucklehead to ruin it for the rest of the honest folks that just want some sneakers.

I hope you guys can execute the midnight releases effectively and fairly.

Good luck.

I def plan on stopping by this weekend.

Sidenote: In the pics and in your posts, it seems as though you carry a lot of Nike apparel. Do you have access to NSW releases/tech apparel? Just curious.

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The police officers will usually be posted around the door and in the parking lot for 1-2 hours before the start of the sale, and 1-2 hours after we've concluded.  So for instance if we open at 10 AM, you will see an officer at 8 AM, and then they will stick around until 11 AM.  The times are always open to adjustment should we not need it, or it becomes a necessity. 

We have access to a lot of NSW apparel, I can't recall if they have a tiered system. AFAIK I've been able to get styles that I think will work.  Apparel is going to become a bigger part of our business, so expect to see more from NSW and other brands (if you have a brand that you would like to see, I will do my best to bring it in).

I will most likely be here all weekend! We're still moving in product and getting it on display, so you may/may not miss something. I look forward to any visit from the NT community. 

Cheers,
J

You're not required to launch the day of release as a retail are you?

That's why I like launch products w/ no release dates.

You get them when your shipment comes in and you put it on the floor.

That's what elite boardshop use to do when they existed.

MinionMarc said:

 
You're not required to launch the day of release as a retail are you?

That's why I like launch products w/ no release dates.

You get them when your shipment comes in and you put it on the floor.

That's what elite boardshop use to do when they existed.

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What product are you referring too? 

Any footwear launch product (release date shoes) must be sold on the day of the release.  So we adhere to those dates.  If you're referring to apparel, I don't recall there ever being dates for clothing. I could be wrong though.

Thanks,
Jason