In the heart of the Southeast, a remarkable story unfolds—one of dedication, customer-centric values, and entrepreneurial spirit. This is the story of Houser Shoes and GB Shoes, a tale that began with a young man's ambition and has evolved into one of the region's largest independent shoe retailers.
The Humble Beginnings
Our story begins with Gary Houser, a name synonymous with passion for footwear and exceptional customer service. In the early days, Gary worked part-time at International Shoe Corporation while pursuing his college education in Charlotte, NC. Starting in stock and sales, he quickly moved up the ranks to assistant manager, setting the stage for his future in the shoe industry.
Gary's journey took him through various roles, including managing stores in Asheville, NC, and Charleston, WV. His hard work and commitment eventually led him back to Charlotte as a district manager. This wealth of experience laid the foundation for what was to come.
The Birth of Houser Shoes
In 1973, Gary, alongside a few partners, took a significant leap by investing in a three-store lease operation known as Bon Marche, headquartered in Asheville, NC. This venture was successful, but Gary’s entrepreneurial spirit drove him to forge his own path. In 1976, he opened the first Houser Shoes store in Gastonia, NC.
This was not just the launch of a new store but the beginning of a legacy built on the principle that “customers are the most important people in any business.” Gary’s dedication to this philosophy became the cornerstone of Houser Shoes.
The GB Shoes Warehouse Revolution
Fast forward to 2000, a new chapter unfolded with the opening of GB Shoes. Partnering with his daughter, Beth, Gary opened one of the Southeast’s largest shoe stores, spanning an impressive 35,000 square feet. GB Shoes was designed to offer an extensive selection of brand-name shoes at discounts of up to 75% off regular department store prices. With a vast array of women’s, men’s, and children’s shoes, the store quickly became a regional staple.
Embracing the Digital Era
Recognizing the growing importance of online shopping, Houser and GB Shoes expanded into the digital realm in 2004 with the launch of housershoes.com. This move was driven by the same customer-centric philosophy that Gary had always championed. Despite the lack of face-to-face interaction in online shopping, the goal was clear: to provide a seamless, enjoyable shopping experience while maintaining the personal touch that defines Houser Shoes.
A Family Business with a Personal Touch
Today, Houser and GB Shoes form an eleven-store operation that stands as one of the Southeast's largest independent retailers. With approximately 150 employees, the company remains true to its roots. Gary Houser’s belief in treating customers as individuals, not numbers, and valuing every employee as part of the family has remained steadfast.
Each store and the online platform are staffed by friendly, knowledgeable employees who are dedicated to making every shopping experience a pleasure. The Houser and GB Shoes family is a testament to the company’s core values, creating a warm, welcoming environment for all.
Looking Ahead
As Houser and GB Shoes continue to grow and evolve, they remain committed to their foundational values. Gary Houser’s vision and dedication have paved the way for a legacy that blends traditional customer service with modern convenience. Whether you’re shopping in-store or online, you can expect the same level of care and attention that has been the hallmark of Houser Shoes since its inception.
In a world where personal connections can sometimes get lost, Houser and GB Shoes stand out as beacons of exceptional service and genuine customer care. Here’s to many more years of success, innovation, and, most importantly, making every customer feel special.
