Today we’d like to introduce you to Drew Flowers.
Hi Drew, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
The idea of opening a trail-focused run specialty shop was first presented to me by my good-running friend Darren Beck. In the winter of 2020, while I was about 50 miles into attempting to run 100 miles, he asked me what I thought about opening a running shop. I didn’t know who was more delirious at this point, him or I. Opening a trail-focused run shop has always been a dream of mine, but it didn’t seem like the best timing during a global pandemic. However, the pandemic did bring a lot more people to an active outdoor lifestyle where there was a significant increase in runners, trail runners, and hikers. So maybe it didn’t seem like such a far-fetched idea.
Shortly after, we started to discuss the idea in more detail with our other trail-running friend Todd Hawkins. We soon started to turn this idea into an actual concept that we all rallied behind. We knew that we wanted to bring the all-inclusive trail vibe into a retail setting. Our goal was, and still is, to make Trailhead Running Supply a community hub where everyone feels like they belong and are proud to be part of.
Once we got to work on the business plan, store location, store design, and vendor partnerships, we quickly learned that we were all pretty much in alignment on the aesthetics, product selection, and overall vibe of the shop. Which aided us in taking this concept to fruition. We all knew that we wanted a customer-facing beer fridge, coffee for our guests, and an ice and water machine. We like to call this our Aid Station. We even have a shower in the bathroom if you need to rinse off all the sweat and dirt after your run before heading to that lunch meeting!
Our Grand Opening was on December 10th, 2023. Our Sunday group run averages 30-40 people each week, where we welcome runners and hikers of all experience levels. The trail community, local community, and runners all across DFW have been so overwhelmingly supportive. We have seen guests drive hours just to come experience Trailhead Running Supply. It’s more than just a running retail shop. It’s where you can connect with other trail enthusiasts, have a cup of coffee, grab a beer and plan your next adventure.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I would be lying if I said it was a smooth road. Anyone that has started a new business can relate to the struggles that come with permits, build-out, and the new post-pandemic issue we all face that with supply chain . In 2022 our opening date seemed like a forever-moving target. Eventually, everything did fall into place, and we couldn’t be happier with how it all came together.
We’ve been impressed with Trailhead Running Supply, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Everyone involved in Trailhead Running Supply are a passionate trail enthusiasts. From the owners, crew, and even Brent who does all of the behind-the-scenes financial spreadsheet magic. We have a curated product assortment that you won’t find at other running shops. We carry products that we use, trust, and believe in. Our focus is trail, and we have over 60 different trail running shoes that you can try on and compare the fit and feel of. We also cater to our road runners, walkers, and hikers.
Our Mission Statement is this: Tra il running is our passion. It shapes our optimistic approach to challenges, redefines our limits, and connects us as a community. Our goal is to meet you where you are on your fitness journey and empower you to take the next step. We want you to reimagine what you are truly capable of and surround you with a community that will support you along the way. The Trailhead is where friends meet, and adventure begins.
Any big plans?
Right now, our focus is on growing and supporting the trail community. We’re looking forward to creating more unique events, like the Trail Running Film Festival that we will be hosting in our store in a small intimate setting in April for our community to part of. We’re also excited to be involved in supporting our local trail races like Blaze Trails by volunteering at their events. We will continue to introduce new and innovative products that are hard to find anywhere else.
We’re happy to be part of this amazingly supportive community and look forward to where the adventure takes us.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.trailheadrunningsupply.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trailheadrunningsupply/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trailheadrunningsupply
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/trailhead-running-supply-flower-mound
