Today we’d like to introduce you to Mark Paigen.
Mark, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Tread Labs makes and sells semi-custom orthotic insoles to help people with foot problems.
I have been involved with footwear for many years. In 1989 I started Chaco sandals, a company that I grew over a 20 year period before selling to Wolverine Worldwide (another footwear company with Boston offices). Chaco was (and is) known for its supportive foot beds. Our flagship sandals became addicting for many users and achieved near cult status in certain demographics.
Tread Labs continues that trajectory with product to support people’s feet in active lifestyles. Our insoles bridge the gap between less expensive off-the-shelf insoles and custom orthotics. Many of our customers rave about the relief that our insoles provide.
We are a small, dynamic team just north of Boston. We are growing quickly and offer top shelf product and exceptional customer service.
Has it been a smooth road?
Start-up business? Smooth road? Are you kidding?
Struggles include:
– Determining the best way to sell a semi-custom product on-line.
– Challenges with supply chain management – product procurement, minimum order quantities, quality…
– Staying up to date on digital marketing systems and strategies. The environment is constantly changing.
– Team building. Getting the right group together and aligned is always a challenge. Mediocre will not move the needle.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Tread Labs story. Tell us more about the business.
Tread labs makes semi-custom orthotic insoles. They are extremely effective in relieving and preventing Plantar Fasciitis, the most common foot injury. Plantar Fasciitis will affect 10% of the population at some point in their life.
Our products are a step above other non-custom insoles:
– Medical grade support provides true, long lasting alignment, unlike less expensive foam insoles.
– Sizes for men and women and 4 arch heights insure a perfect fit and optimum comfort, without the need for custom orthotics.
– Long term value – Tread labs arch supports are guaranteed. Forever. The foam top covers can be replaced inexpensively to ensure that feet and shoes stay fresh, comfortable and supportive.
We are most proud of the positive reviews we receive for the effectiveness of our products and the personal, high touch service we provide. Our goal is to exceed our customers’ expectations in both areas.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
Our aging population is growing and increasingly active. It will need more and more products that can truly make a quality of life difference. We will be there to meet these needs.
There are new manufacturing technologies in their infancy. As they become more ubiquitous and cost effective, they will change the nature of manufacturing.
Pricing:
- Stride Insoles – $75
- Stride Thin Insoles – $75
- Stride Short Insoles – $70
- Stride Replacement Top Covers – $15
- Stride Thin Replacement Top Covers – $15
- Stride Short Replacement Top Covers – $10
Contact Info:
- Address: 5 Central Square #201
Stoneham, MA 02180 - Website: www.treadlabs.com
- Phone: 781.435.0662
- Email: hello@treadlabs.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/treadlabs/
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