The Running Industry Association (RIA) is a non-profit organization that supports the brick and mortar running retail channel throughout the United States and Canada. Our members are independently owned stores, the brands that sell within the channel, and the companies that provide services and support to the channel.
Founded in 2006 as the Independent Running Retailers Association, the organization has undergone consistent growth and evolution, leading to the transition in 2015 to a 501c6 non-profit, and in 2017, our members' decision to re-brand as the Running Industry Association. The name change reflects the understanding that for the independent running specialty channel to remain competitive, a new, inclusive culture must be fostered. With all stakeholders working collaboratively together, the channel can remain robust and meet the challenges of an increasingly complex market. As the RIA moves forward, our mission will remain focused on serving the channel with resources and advocacy. In doing so, RIA will position itself as the progressive thought and business leader for the entire running industry.
The RIA’s sole purpose is to drive the running industry forward. We do this by helping members maintain healthy, profitable businesses through financial benefits, innovative commerce tools, advocacy, strategic partnerships, and peer support.
The Running Industry Association’s Board represents our membership with the express purpose of supporting the organization’s mission to create a collaborative, dynamic specialty run community. The board consists of 13 members who represent our 3 levels of membership. There are 9 retail seats, 3 brand seats, and 1 associate seat. Our 2021 board members are:
President - Ross Martinson - Philadelphia Runners
Vice President - Andrea Lehmkuhler - Point 2 Running Company
Treasurer - Daniel Greenhalgh - Skinny Raven
Secretary - Jen Brummit - Gazelle Sports
Jen Brummit - Gazelle Sports
Harry Chandler - Charlotte Running Company
Dan Gardner - Feetures
Daniel Greenhalgh - Skinny Raven
Amy Johnson - Craft
Nick Kovaleski - A Runner's Mind
Andrea Lehmkuhler - Point 2 Running Company
Jeff Metzdorff - Mill City/Saint City
Lindsey Mulder - Playmakers
Lance Muzslay - Optio
Scott Rakestraw - Upper Quadrant
Trey Vernon - Manhattan Running Company
Matt Weiss - Brooks Running