SS, which is owned by Foot Locker Inc, to learn more about the brand’s expansion strategy and its commitment to serving Latino communities.  Inside Retail: What was the drive behind launching the 40th Anniversary Tour and what has the public response been like?  Blanca Gonzalez: Our 40th Anniversary Tour has been a great success so far. We’ve made 15 stops at WSS stores and community hubs like Heart of LA, each featuring a food truck and serving at least 100 people, with some events drawing even larger crowds.  The response has been overwhelmingly positive because people don’t often expect a business to celebrate so personally, bringing food, music, and prizes right in their own neighbourhoods. It’s about building genuine connections and that’s what this tour is all about.  IR: To celebrate this major milestone, WSS also launched collaborations with brands like Dickies and Pro Club, as well as culturally relevant releases such as the Charly Mexican Independence Day Jersey and exclusive Bad Bunny x Adidas designs. What was the inspiration behind these launches and how did these partnerships come about?  BG: The inspiration behind our collaborations and culturally relevant releases, like the Charly Mexican Independence Day Jersey, comes directly from the communities we serve. These partnerships celebrate the rich traditions and stories that resonate with our customers.  WSS has always been more than just a retailer; we are a cultural connector.  Collaborating with brands like Adidas, Dickies, and Pro Club, who share our commitment to streetwear and community, felt like a natural fit. We wanted to mark this milestone in a way that truly honors our customers’ heritage and lifestyle.  To show our appreciation for the people who have made this journey possible, we’ve partnered with Adidas to create a special Campus sneaker. As a token of our gratitude, every WSS employee will receive a pair. This anniversary is as much about them as it is about our customers. After all, they’ve played a huge role in shaping our story and success.  IR: What does it mean for this brand to be celebrating a milestone like this?  BG: Reaching 40 years in a hyper-competitive market like footwear is a great achievement.  It speaks to the trust and loyalty of our customers and the unwavering dedication of our teams. This anniversary isn’t just about longevity, it’s about celebrating the relationships and connections we’ve built along the way.  WSS has always been about community first, and that’s what has kept us thriving through the decades. To me, this milestone means honouring our roots while looking forward to the next chapter with a sense of pride and responsibility.  IR: What tactics are used to ensure WSS stays relevant to the modern consumer?  BG: To stay relevant, we constantly listen to our customers and meet them where they are, both in-store and online. Whether it’s through exclusive collections, loyalty rewards, or local events, we’re always finding new ways to engage and give back. We embrace both traditional retail and digital innovation to ensure we stay relevant to consumers.  IR: What can we expect to see from the company in the next one to two years? And over the next 40 years?  BG: In the next one to two years, you can expect WSS to continue expanding our footprint, with a focus on blending our bricks-and-mortar presence with enhanced digital experiences.  We’ll keep strengthening our community ties through sports partnerships, local events, and product offerings that resonate with our customers.  Looking ahead 40 years, we’ll stay true to our roots while evolving with the changing retail landscape. WSS will always be about creating connections, and we’ll continue to lead with that approach in everything we do.  IR: There are currently 143 stores open, with plans to reach 150 locations by end-of-year (EOY). What are the steps the company has for building its bricks-and-mortar and its overall omnichannel presence?  BG: We’ve always believed that bricks-and-mortar plays an essential role in building community. As we approach 150 stores by EOY, our focus is on creating a seamless omnichannel experience.  We’re expanding our e-commerce platform and strengthening our loyalty program to ensure customers can engage with us wherever and however they choose. Our neighbourhood stores are community hubs, and we’re committed to making every in-store experience as meaningful as it is convenient, supported by our online presence.  IR: You’ve mentioned in prior interviews how you and your family were personal shoppers of WSS. What does it mean to you to step into this role within the company today? BG: Growing up, WSS was where my family and I went to buy shoes, so stepping into this role feels deeply personal.  It’s an honour to lead a company that has meant so much to me and my community. I understand firsthand the impact WSS can have on families, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to continue that legacy.  To be in a position where I can help shape the future of WSS while staying true to our roots is a privilege, and I’m committed to ensuring that WSS remains a place where everyone feels welcome, seen, and valued.