For four decades, Journeys has been a go-to shoe destination for teens. Now, amid a mall resurgence, the retail chain is capturing their attention once again with a refreshed strategy that focuses on teen girls and embraces Gen Z’s openness to fashion experimentation.

That’s opened the door to adding new brands to the assortment — and forged deeper relationships with longtime vendors, such as Dr. Martens, Converse, Vans, Adidas and many more.

Here, top executives from some of Journeys’ major brand partners discuss the inner workings of their collaborations.

Joe Preston
President & CEO, New Balance

“Our long-standing partnership with Journeys has always been centered around our shared focus on collaboration, authenticity and mutual growth. They are uniquely positioned in the marketplace and continue to build their business by creating strong consumer connections and investing in brand [relationships].”“Our long-standing partnership with Journeys has always been centered around our shared focus on collaboration, authenticity and mutual growth. They are uniquely positioned in the marketplace and continue to build their business by creating strong consumer connections and investing in brand [relationships].”

Ije Nwokorie
CEO, Dr. Martens

“We’ve worked together for a long time, and we’ve always admired Journeys’ focus on the consumer. That’s been the foundation of our strong partnership and will always guide how we work together. As Dr. Martens has evolved, Journeys has been important in helping us bring the brand to the next generation of wearers. The close collaboration between our teams has been the secret sauce to shared success.”

“Our long-standing partnership with Journeys has always been centered around our shared focus on collaboration, authenticity and mutual growth. They are uniquely positioned in the marketplace and continue to build their business by creating strong consumer connections and investing in brand [relationships].”

Aaron Cain
President & CEO, Converse

“For four decades, Journeys has been a driving force in connecting consumers with the brands and products they love, creating spaces where individuality and self-expression can thrive. We’re proud of how the Converse and Journeys partnership has grown over the years, and we’re excited to continue inspiring the next generation together. Congratulations on this incredible milestone.”

Nina Flood
Global brand president, Timberland

“Our success with Journeys comes down to a shared (and maniacal!) focus on the consumer and a willingness to evolve together. Journeys has consistently demonstrated an ability to understand emerging trends, connect authentically with youth culture and create engaging retail experiences. Combined with Timberland’s strong brand heritage and product innovation, we’ve been able to stay relevant while remaining true to who we are. Open communication, mutual trust and a long-term commitment to grow together have been the foundation of our success.”

John Miller
President, Adidas North America

“Journeys is the type of partner every brand hopes to have — entrepreneurial, consumer-focused and trusted. The openness, accountability and shared ambition between our teams have fueled decades of growth. As Journeys celebrates 40 years, it’s an impressive milestone that reflects the brand’s long-term relevance and deep connection with consumers.”

David Kahan
Managing director & president, Birkenstock Americas

“The secret [to Journeys’ success] is there is no secret! Together with their merchandising team, we align on key items that become ‘must-haves’ in the wardrobes of their consumers and we lean in big time on these key items and make Journeys a go-to destination. Between digital marketing, social media efforts and very strong in-store execution, we ensure this consumer knows Journeys is their number-one place to shop for our brand.”

Noah Bryan
General manager, Vans Americas

“Our partnership has been built on a shared commitment to empowering young consumers through self-expression, creativity and authenticity. Journeys has been an exceptional partner to Vans, consistently evolving with the next generation while staying true to its roots. That shared belief in individuality and living ‘Off the Wall’ has made our collaboration so meaningful over the years. We’re proud of what we’ve built together and look forward to continuing to inspire consumers for years to come.”

Tracy Paoletti
Vice president & general manager, Ugg North America

“Throughout our long-standing partnership, we’ve shared a commitment to creating authentic experiences that bring people together and celebrate individuality. At Ugg, we believe comfort gives people the confidence to express themselves freely, and we’re proud to continue bringing that vision to life alongside Journeys.”

Matt Lancor
Vice president of sales, Puma North America

“Our success is rooted in a shared mindset of putting the consumer first, maintaining open communication and continually challenging each other to think bigger. Journeys is a best-in-class partner, deeply connected to its audience and unafraid to take bold risks. We’re excited to continue growing together in the years ahead.”