What is the Running Industry Association?

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 as 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 Mission

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.

Learn more about what we do

Meet Our Staff

The RIA staff works to connect and engage members with valuable resources in order to advance the specialty running channel.

Contact Us

General Inquiries

Member Services

Technical Support

Terry Schalow

Executive Director

Rachel Brenneman

Marketing & PR

Stephanie Lauerman

Membership & CRM Manager

Traci Schalow of Running Industry Association

Traci Kindred Schalow

Graphic Designer

Shawna Cruise

Financial Services

Board of Directors

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 2020 board members are:

Board Officers

John Benedict - Playmakers - Board President
Jason Becker - RICS Software - Vice President
Kathy Dalby - Pacers - Treasurer
Nick Stanko - Ann Arbor Running Company - Secretary

Board Members:

Christie Beth Adams - Fleet Feet Nashville
Donny Forsyth - Charlotte Running Company
Bob Kennedy - Athletic Annex
Genie Beaver - West Stride
Dustin Pearce - Run Hub Northwest
Ken Larscheid - Running Lab
Hugh Gaither - Feetures
Joe Toth - Saucony

Join the RIA and let's get going

Running Industry Association

2588 El Camino Real STE F-615
Carlsbad, CA 92008-1202
619-977-3379
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