The Running Event recently launched a new TRE Peer Mentorship Program. The initiative will facilitate meaningful relationships between run specialty retailers while supporting peer learning and professional growth.

“Knowledge sharing and mentorship is so important in the run specialty industry, and we want to help foster those impactful relationships,” said Christina Henderson, Executive Director, The Running Event. “This new program will bring retailers from around the world together to generate ideas, solve challenges, support professional development—and simply connect on a personal basis.”

The 2022 initiative builds upon the 2021 pilot program, which connected new-to-TRE attendees with returning event-goers prior to the show for a more supportive in-person experience. The expanded TRE Peer Mentorship Program offers year-round connection points in contrast, culminating with onsite activities at #TRE22 this November 29 to December 1 in Austin, TX.

“The 2021 mentorship program was an incredible experience where we shared best practices and ideas on a peer-to-peer level,” said Toni Reese, Store Manager, Running Lab. “Our relationship was really comfortable being that it was one-on-one, and we were able to discuss topics that pertained to our individual businesses. I was a mentor, and I gained many great ideas from my mentee to bring back to my store.”

Retailer staff at any level—including owners, buyers, managers and sales associates—are encouraged to fill out this form to get started. The Running Event team will follow up with a survey the week of April 18 assessing what individuals would find most valuable in a partnership while taking goals, challenges, and communication preferences into consideration.

Interested retailers are encouraged to learn more and join the TRE Peer Mentorship Program here.