MEMBER PROFILE - Akerman's Shoes

Akerman’s Shoes:

HAPPY FAMILY, HAPPY FEET

By Paul Anthony Arco

It’s no exaggeration to say Gary Akerman followed in his father’s footsteps right into the shoe business.

For Edgar, the shoe business was all about providing good customer service – a philosophy that Gary has carried on as the present owner. “He was very passionate and a hard worker,” said Gary. “He kept detailed records and knew most of his customers by name. He made sure you were happy when you walked out of the store.”

Gary worked as a service representative for 3M Manufacturing before joining his father full-time in 1985. Two brothers – Jeff, who died in an accident in 1982, and Kent, who eventually retired – also worked for the family business at one time.

Akerman’s, a chamber member since 1964, offers a variety of brandnamed shoes and slippers for men and women including SAS, New Balance, Birkenstock, Dansko, Florsheim, Aetrex, Taos and Hush Puppies. The store also carries accessories like socks, purses, scarves, wallets and Canadian-made winter boots by Toe Warmers. While most stores only carry medium widths, Akerman’s offers widths of AAAA to EEEEE and up to size 15.

If the Shoe Fits …

In the early years, Akerman’s success was built mostly on orthopedic shoes that featured padded removable foot beds. “We still have many types of shoes that are podiatrist recommended,” Gary said.

Akerman’s customers range from age 35 and up and nearly 85 percent of them are women. They come from as far away as Janesville, Dixon and Freeport. Within the past few years, Akerman’s has enhanced its website and added a social media presence, which has increased visibility and sales, especially with outof-state customers.

According to Gary, the biggest change, over the years, has been the customer’s desire for comfortable casual shoes. Leather soles are out, having been replaced by synthetic leather and the demand for dress shoes has declined over the years, especially in the past year due to COVID-19. Slippers were highly sought after during the past year as many people worked from home. Akerman’s closed its door for two months last year during the height of the pandemic.

The shoe business is cyclical. Spring is a busy time, but sales slow in midsummer. Business picks up again in the fall, when new product lines are released, but slows during the winter months.

Gary and his staff of five try to educate customers about selecting the right pair of shoes. To avoid painful problems, shoes should conform to the shape of your feet; your foot should never be forced to conform to the shape of a shoe. Shoes that are too narrow or too wide can lead to blisters and calluses. “Proper fit is so important to avoid injury,” said Gary.

Edgar worked up to the day he died at 88. Gary says his father would be proud of what has become of the business he started. Like his father, Gary has no plans to retire any time soon, either. He’s having too much fun.

“I thoroughly enjoy what I do,” he said. “When you’re having fun, you don’t want to quit. I have a fantastic staff and great customers. We’re one big happy family.”

AKERMAN’S SHOES - Owner: Gary Akerman 1613 N. Alpine Road 815-397-9706 Akermanshoes.com