Runner s Roost

OVER ITS 45 YEARS IN BUSINESS, Buffalo-based Runner’s Roost has sharpened ice skates, sold JanSport backpacks and peddled seasonal footwear from the likes of Ugg, Teva and OluKai. From founder Joe Freeman to second owner Dave Borodzik to current owners Michelle and Robert Fox, however, running has remained the core business at Runner’s Roost, which should not be confused with the Colorado-based running store chain of the same name.

Since taking over in 2017, the Foxes have incorporated modern business tools like a cloud POS system, an e-commerce website and a Volumental scanner for the sales floor. The couple also opened a second store in nearby East Amherst, NY.