The parent company of The Athlete’s Foot has acquired Shoe City, a Baltimore-based sneaker and streetwear retail chain, and its e-commerce site.
Founded in 1949, the family business has grown to more than 40 stores across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.
The acquisition marks Arklyz’s continued expansion. In July 2021, it acquired The Athlete’s Foot, which currently operates 550 stores and e-commerce shops in 30-plus countries. Earlier this month, it acquired Asphaltgold, an online European sneaker and streetwear retailer.
The Shoe City acquisition will add an expanded retail presence in the DMV region to existing Athlete’s Food locations while its e-commerce platform will help jumpstart the brand’s omni-channel strategies. Arklyz has appointed Matthew Lafone, President and General Manager of the Americas, to oversee both businesses.
“Adding Shoe City and ycmc.com to the portfolio together with TAF strengthens our position as one of the nation’s top retail destinations for footwear, apparel, and accessories,” said Param Singh, Owner and CEO of Arklyz. “I am also confident that having cohesive leadership under Matthew Lafone, will not only make for a seamless transition but enable both TAF and Shoe City to execute effectively on future growth plans.”
