Phoenix-based Flip Flop Shops, North America's first retail chain exclusive to flip-flops and sandals, is expanding its footwear lines to include cold-weather footwear.
"Just because it's cold outside, doesn't mean you have to kick your 'free your toes' lifestyle to the curb," said Brian Curin, the president of Flip Flop Shops. "We have everything from Uggs to Sanuk Sidewalk Surfers in 'chill' styles and Reef's new Coastal Cruiser line."
In addition to warm, closed-toe styles, select Flip Flop Shops locations are currently offering däv rain boots to keep toes dry during rainy days.
Founded in 2004, Flip Flop Shops has more than 30 shops currently operating as well as 50-plus shops in development. Vancouver's Flip Flop Shop, which is on West Fourth Avenue, opened its doors three years ago. Curin said his goal is to have five stores in Vancouver, 12 in B.C. and 236 across the U.S. and Canada by 2013.
A transplanted American now based in Vancouver, Curin was one of the original partners in the successful Cold Stone Creamery ice cream stores in the U.S. At least two well-known Vancouver business executives have invested in the Flip Flop Shops concept, including Vancouver Canucks president Chris Zimmerman and Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers CEO Peter Blake.
A Flip Flop Shops franchise costs from $167,300 to $272,500, with an initial franchise fee of $28,000. There is a royalty fee of 5 per cent and an advertising fee of 0.5 per cent of gross sales.
from Western Investor, March 2011
