Lori’s Shoes Celebrates 40th Anniversary

LORI ANDRE, FOUNDER and owner Lori’s Shoes, is having a moment. Well, a month of many, to be precise. The three-store chain (one in Chicago and two in surrounding suburbs) is commemorating its 40th anniversary in style this August with a series of events and initiatives to engage with customers and express gratitude for their longstanding support. The festivities include exclusive anniversary discounts on a wide range of shoes, accessories, and clothing, allowing customers to embrace their personal style without breaking the bank; giveaways; and partnering with local organizations and charities that align with Lori’s Shoes’ values and enable the business to give back to the community that has supported it over the years.

Andre describes her 40-year run as a journey of entrepreneurship, tons of cool shoes, and thousands of loyal customers. The pulse of Chicago and incredible employees are a key part of that journey, as well. Asked what she is most proud of, Andre says it’s of being in business for 40 years. “It’s no easy feat, given that over the last 40 years there have been many hurdles that have stood in our way,” she says. “Yet, we’ve been able to get around those and maintain our success.” In fact, Andre attributes Lori’s Shoes longevity most to her stubbornness—in a good way. “I think my personality is such that I hate losing,” she says. “Seriously, my entrepreneurial spirit has helped me tremendously along the way. I also believe that our curated product assortment and shopping environment have definitely helped contribute to our success and longevity.”

Lori’s Shoes has established itself as a destination for fashionable footwear, accessories, and clothing. The chain has built a reputation for being a step ahead in what its customers—who span women of all ages—want next. A recipient of a Plus Award for retail excellence in the Boutique category this year, Andre credited the recognition to being so in tune with the pulse of its business. “We’re in a unique position because we can be proactive as well as reactive,” she says. “We know how to manage the business from costs and margins perspectives, we have capital to buy merchandise, we react quickly to trends, we have a unique selection, and we provide great customer service.” Andre adds, “Just living, breathing, and eating this business every day is what’s made us successful over the years.”

Flashback to 1983, however, and Andre had no expectations that she’d still be at it 40 years later. The thought never even entered her mind then. “At the time, I was 23 years old and didn’t know what to expect!” she says. “I bet, though, that I was thinking I’d still have the rest of my life to earn a living. So I wasn’t opposed to taking the risk.”

An optimist by nature, Andre believes Lori’s Shoes will continue its successful journey. The company remains committed to its founding principles of quality, style, and exceptional customer service in its stores and online. “As long as I seek out great product that I know our customers want, I’ll remain optimistic,” she says, adding, “I continue to love what I do, and have a strong passion for it. I’m just as motivated and enthusiastic today as I was 40 years ago.”