Runners Need is a UK-based specialist retailer catering to the growing community of runners, providing a wide range of gear, footwear, apparel, and expert advice. Established in 1982, the brand has grown from a single store in Camden to a nationwide network with a strong online presence. Today, it is part of the Outdoor and Cycle Concepts Group, which also includes well-known brands such as Snow Rock and Cycle Surgery. Runners Need has built a reputation for offering a curated selection of running products, excellent customer service, and a unique in-store experience. But what exactly makes this retailer so beloved by runners in the UK?
1. Wide Range of Specialist Running Products
One of the primary reasons Runners Need is a top choice for UK runners is its extensive product range, tailored specifically for runners. The company understands the nuanced needs of runners, from beginners to seasoned marathoners. Their product catalogue includes:
- Running Shoes: From trail running shoes to road running shoes, Runners Need stocks top brands like Nike, Brooks, Saucony, ASICS, and Hoka One One. They cater to various running styles and foot types, ensuring that each customer finds the perfect shoe for their running goals.
- Running Apparel: Their apparel range includes lightweight, moisture-wicking materials designed for comfort during both short and long runs. Runners Need carries everything from compression tights to running jackets, ensuring that runners stay comfortable in all weather conditions.
- Accessories: Runners can also shop for essentials such as hydration packs, GPS watches, running belts, and sports nutrition products. The store offers everything needed to optimize performance, ensuring that the customer doesn’t need to look elsewhere.
- Expert Gear Advice: Runners Need doesn’t just sell running products. They provide customers with tailored advice and guidance, including gait analysis and shoe-fitting services. This expert consultation helps runners choose gear that will reduce injury risk and enhance performance, which is a huge advantage for those who might be unfamiliar with the best products for their specific needs.
2. Expert Customer Service and In-Store Experience
While the internet is filled with e-commerce giants offering sporting goods, the personal touch that Runners Need provides sets it apart. Runners Need has a strong focus on in-store experiences, and their team members are often experienced runners themselves, providing expert advice. The in-store services that draw customers include:
- Gait Analysis: One of the standout services at Runners Need is their gait analysis, a complimentary service available at all stores. A specialist assesses the runner’s foot strike and motion to recommend the best type of shoe for their running style. This service is critical for runners who are prone to injuries or looking to improve their technique.
- Running Clinics and Events: Runners Need frequently hosts running clinics, training events, and community runs in partnership with local running clubs and brands. These events foster a community spirit and provide customers with valuable knowledge on injury prevention, nutrition, and training techniques.
- Personalization and Advice: Many stores employ specialists who provide tailored advice, making every visit a personalized experience. Whether a customer is preparing for their first 5K or their 10th marathon, the staff can offer tips on gear, training, and recovery.
This combination of expert customer service and hands-on, tailored experience makes Runners Need stand out. UK runners appreciate being able to walk into a store and have their unique needs addressed, particularly when it comes to something as important as choosing the right running shoes.
3. Strong Online Presence and E-commerce Convenience
While Runners Need excels in providing a brick-and-mortar experience, they have also developed a strong online presence, ensuring convenience for those who prefer shopping from home. Their website is designed for easy navigation and provides the same level of expertise available in-store, with detailed product descriptions, buying guides, and customer reviews.
- Product Reviews and Recommendations: Runners Need’s website features a robust review system, where customers can leave feedback about their purchases. This helps new customers make informed decisions based on real-world experiences from other runners.
- Detailed Product Information: Each product page is packed with information, including size guides, product specs, and expert advice, making it easier for customers to choose the right products, even without physically visiting a store.
- Free Returns and Delivery: Another reason why Runners Need is popular in the UK is their customer-friendly delivery and returns policy. They offer free standard delivery on orders over a certain amount and have a hassle-free returns process, which is particularly important for online customers.
- Click and Collect: For those who prefer a blend of online and in-store shopping, Runners Need offers a “click and collect” option. Customers can order online and pick up their items at a local store, combining the convenience of online shopping with the expertise and support available in-store.
4. Commitment to Sustainability and Ethical Shopping
In recent years, sustainability has become a significant concern for many shoppers, and Runners Need has taken steps to align with this demand. The company offers eco-friendly products and has made commitments toward reducing its environmental footprint. They stock items from brands that prioritize sustainability, such as Brooks and Patagonia, and offer products made from recycled materials or that are designed to last longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Additionally, Runners Need has participated in initiatives like recycling old running shoes and apparel. This resonates with environmentally-conscious consumers who want to reduce their impact on the planet without compromising on quality or performance.
5. Community and Trust
Runners Need has cultivated a strong sense of community, both online and offline. Their blog, social media presence, and partnerships with local running clubs allow them to engage with runners across the UK. The brand frequently collaborates with influencers, trainers, and athletes to share tips, training plans, and motivation. This sense of community keeps customers coming back and fosters brand loyalty.
Moreover, trust is another key reason why UK runners love shopping at Runners Need. The brand has built a reputation for providing only the best, rigorously tested products. Customers feel confident knowing that their purchases are backed by a company that truly understands the sport and is invested in their running journey.
6. Competitive Pricing and Promotions
Despite offering premium products and services, Runners Need remains competitive in terms of pricing. They frequently run discounts, offers, and promotions, making high-quality running gear more accessible to a wider audience. Their Price Match Promise ensures that customers won’t find the same product for less elsewhere, giving them confidence that they’re getting the best deal possible.
Runners Need also has a Loyalty Program, which rewards repeat customers with exclusive offers, birthday vouchers, and early access to sales. These perks are another reason why runners prefer to shop here rather than with other sporting retailers.
Runners Need has positioned itself as a go-to retailer for UK runners, offering a perfect balance between specialist expertise, high-quality products, and customer-friendly services. The combination of their in-store services like gait analysis, a wide range of specialized products, expert advice, and a strong online presence has made them a favorite among runners across the UK.
Moreover, their commitment to sustainability, community-building efforts, competitive pricing, and superior customer experience ensures that Runners Need is not just a place to buy running gear but a trusted partner in every runner’s journey. It’s this unique blend of expertise, product quality, and customer care that keeps UK runners returning to Runners Need time and time again.
