FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: DC Lucchesi, dc@well-runmedia.com 704-577-8459
July 30, 2025
CHARLOTTE – RunCharlotte and The Novant Health Charlotte Marathon enthusiastically announce an all-new partnership with Fleet Feet, the largest franchisor of locally owned and operated run specialty stores, to create a dynamic and more immersive retail experience at the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Expo.
The agreement provides Fleet Feet with naming rights to the Expo and other year-round promotional opportunities, and nearly triples the retail footprint compared to the previous year’s Expo. Runners and Expo visitors can expect to see even more participating brands, interactive opportunities, and a seamless transaction experience.
“This partnership really takes the runners’ Expo experience to the next level,” said Tim Rhodes, Managing Partner of The Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. “As interest and participation continue to grow, runners expect a world-class experience here… this just gives runners another reason to put Charlotte on their ‘must-run’ list!”
As part of the multi-year partnership, Fleet Feet will host and manage all Official Merchandise sales at the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Expo presented by Fleet Feet, and at the post-race Finish Line Festival after The Novant Health Charlotte Marathon events.
“We’re thrilled to partner with the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon and to have the opportunity to serve runners as they experience Charlotte’s premier running event,” said Joey Pointer, president and CEO of Fleet Feet. “We look forward to helping make the race weekend unforgettable, and hope runners will find a familiar and welcome space in Fleet Feet’s retail experience.”
Fleet Feet has five locations throughout the greater Charlotte-area, and offers training programs for various goal distances throughout the year, including a half marathon training program that will prepare participants for the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon half distance.
Registration is open now for the Saturday, November 15, 2025 running of the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, half marathon, rucking half marathon, and the Chick-fil-A 5k. There is no charge for participants or the public to experience the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon Expo presented by Fleet Feet on Friday, November 14.
About Run Charlotte and The Novant Health Charlotte Marathon
RunCharlotte is Charlotte’s home for the resources, inspiration, and experiences for runners of all paces. Showcasing the best of Charlotte for more than 20 years running, Novant Health Charlotte Marathon weekend features a full marathon, half marathon, and 5k, attracting participants from around the world, and every state in the country. The event and its participants have contributed more than $600,000 to support programs at Novant Health’s Hemby Children’s Hospital. For information about the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, visit www.thecharlottemarathon.com
About Fleet Feet
Founded in 1976, Fleet Feet is the largest franchisor of locally owned and operated run specialty stores. With more than 280 Fleet Feet stores in 40 states and a national headquarters in Carrboro, N.C., Fleet Feet is committed to providing runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts with outfitting expertise, robust training programs, community support and rewards. Fleet Feet believes that RUNNING CHANGES EVERYTHING® and has been recognized in Fast Company’s Brands That Matter, the Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Companies and Best in Business, Newsweek’s list of America’s Best Retailers and America’s Best Online Shops, and PRWeek’s Purpose Awards. Stay inspired, motivated and connected at Fleet Feet.
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