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Fan Zhou

GM Run + Footwear

Fan Zhou is currently the General Manager of Running + Footwear at REI, a position he has held since 2023.6 He joined REI in 2022, initially as the General Manager of Running.64 In his role, Zhou has been instrumental in expanding REI's presence in the running market and overseeing the company's footwear merchandising strategy.

During his tenure at REI, Zhou has been involved in several key initiatives:

  1. Expanding REI's running business: Under Zhou's leadership, REI's run business has grown 20% larger than it was in 2022, with the company now selling more running shoes than hiking shoes.1

  2. Launching REI's first running shoe: Zhou played a crucial role in the development and launch of the Swiftland Multi-terrain shoe in 2023, REI's first running shoe since the 1970s.2

  3. Implementing a localized approach: Zhou has overseen the creation of stores-within-stores concept for running gear in key markets, as well as the customization of product offerings based on local needs.1

  4. Strengthening brand partnerships: He has worked on deepening REI's relationships with major running brands like Altra and On.1

  5. Supporting the growing running community: Zhou has emphasized REI's commitment to serving runners of all skill levels and expanding the co-op's running gear selection.5

Prior to joining REI, Zhou's LinkedIn profile suggests he has had experience in product and commercial roles.3 However, as of October 30, 2024, Zhou's LinkedIn profile indicates that he is currently leading the product and commercial teams at True Classic3, which may suggest a recent career move after his time at REI.

Highlights

Sep 16 · runninginsight.com
Two Years Running
Two Years Running
Jun 5 · thestreet.com
REI Jogs Back Into the Running Shoe Business After 50 Years
Jun 2 · retaildive.com
REI launches first running shoe since the '70s - Retail Dive
Apr 14 · rei.com
REI Co-op broadens its selection of running gear and expertise to ...
Dec 4 · Bloomberg
Billionaire Aliko Dangote Nigeria Refinery Tower Delivered - Bloomberg
Teams all across country boost security after Boston attack - Press of Atlantic City

Related Questions

What inspired REI to expand its running market strategy?
How has REI's approach to running footwear differed from its hiking footwear?
What are the key features of REI's new Swiftland Multi-terrain shoe?
How has REI's partnership with running brands impacted its business?
What local running events has REI created to engage with the community?
Fan Zhou
Fan Zhou, photo 1
Fan Zhou, photo 2
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Location

Seattle, Washington, United States