🎙️ In this episode of the RIA Podcast, we dive into the world of Retail, Brand and RIA!

🛒 Pro:Direct Running with Katie shares valuable insights from one of the UK’s leading premium online sports retailers. This episode is co-hosted with Matt and Phil.

📜 With a rich heritage dating back to 1991 and a pioneering online presence since 1998, Pro:Direct has evolved alongside the industry – offering a specialist approach to running and an athlete-focused mindset that drives performance, innovation, and growth.

Key topics include:
🏃‍♀️ The running boom and what it means from a retail lens
🤝 Working closely with brands – navigating forecasting, sustainability and direct to consumer (D2C) shifts
🔁 Running product cycles and a look at how Pro:Direct supports development of product with the running brands, successful launches and other innovations coming in the future!
👟 Growing the running community through Pro:Direct Running Club, loyalty programs, money-can’t-buy opportunities and education
📸 Pro:Direct being one of the first to move to own imagery and content rather than brand issue – a bold move at the time
🧩 Collaboration over competition – why honest brand relationships and discussions matter now more than ever, also with fellow retailers in the same space
📈 Katie’s perspective on where retail is headed and how being dynamic, fast-paced and consumer-led is key
🚚 From warehouse to consumer – how 7-day fulfilment offering and custom content make a difference

💬 And finally, Katie’s thoughts on how RIA brings the industry together, fosters real collaboration and helps shape the future of running across every vertical.

🎧 Tune in for a deep dive into the business of running from the retail front line.

🗓️ Mention of The Running Conference (7th to 9th December) and the role of Running Industry Alliance (RIA) in connecting brands, events, retailers, communities and more / Running Industry Alliance (RIA) & The Running Conference (TRC)

There is a link on the homepage of the website and the podcast is also available to listen to on all the major the platforms including:

Apple | Spotify | Amazon

Check out the Pro:Direct Running RIA Foundation Member profile here  . 

Thank you for listening, subscribe to be first to hear the latest episode drops!