Red Wing Shoe Company continues winning legacy with Manufacturer of the Year Award | Local News

Red Wing Shoe Company was recently voted the Manufacturer Business of the Year, marking the 13th time since 2005 that the footwear business has received an award from the Red Wing Area Chamber of Commerce.

“We are very proud and honored to be named Manufacturer Business of the Year,” said Ryan Schwoch, senior director of manufacturing operations. “We continue to push forward in this journey and strive to commit to our company mission to be a great company that makes a difference in people’s lives. Winning this award is an honor for the hard work and dedication of our entire team and many who serve our community every day.”

With a mission to be a great company that makes a difference in people’s lives, Red Wing Shoe Company offers a range of footwear for safety, hunting, hiking and lifestyle. A full-service retailer, the company even has “fit specialists” that help keep customers supported, comfortable and safe — all day, every day.

Marisa Kinney, senior director of global retail, said the company’s century-long commitment to quality and craftsmanship is a big reason why the company won the Manufacturer of the Year award.

“In the end,” she said, “we believe it all comes back to the fact that we offer premium, high-quality products across our entire value chain — from the footwear we manufacture to the personal service that we provide both here at our flagship Red Wing store in Red Wing, Minnesota and across our nearly 550 stores in North America alone. We believe that our focus on the consumer and their needs sets us apart.”

These are values that have remained strong since the humble beginnings of Red Wing Shoe Company.

The company was founded in Red Wing in 1905 to provide workers in industries like mining, farming and logging with durable, comfortable footwear. More than 115 years later, the footwear company has seen colossal growth and, according to the business’s website, now has more than 2,100 employees worldwide and distributes products in more than 110 countries.

Over the years and through the growth, Red Wing Shoe Company has remained steadfast in its commitment to quality craftsmanship.

The business hasn’t forgotten its roots, either. Not only has the city of Red Wing benefited from the economic success of the shoe manufacturer, but the company also actively contributes to supporting the community.

“The Red Wing Shoe Company is a cornerstone of our community,” Kinney said. “In fact, our values state that we as a company and employee base will be actively involved in our communities, setting the highest standards and striving to constantly improve. Our dedication and contributions to the community include philanthropy as well as the time and talents of our loyal employees.”

Red Wing Shoe Company’s recognition underscores its commitment to quality, service and community, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry and a pillar of the Red Wing community.

For more information, visit redwingshoeco.com.

This article is the last in a weekly series featuring each of the Red Wing Area Chamber of Commerce 2023 award winners.