Haney Shoes has seen many reiterations of downtown Benson. Founded in 1942 by Paul Haney, the shoe repair shop turned shoe retailer, is still standing strong with Haney’s three grandchildren at the helm, Doug Sorenson, Mark Sorenson and Carrie Ericson.
The three have been heavily involved with the business since childhood. It was normal to come in after a day of playing outside to help put shoes away at the age of 12.
Haney Shoes has adapted to different styles and tastes over the years, but most recently, the owners have had to deal with supply chain issues and pre-ordering shoes just to ensure they had inventory on the shelves.
Ericson noted that in order to continue growing, they have leaned into where the demand is, especially as a mainstay store for professional footwear.
“The dress shoe business is pretty minimal due to everybody who is working remotely and not dressing up even when they do go into their corporate jobs,” Doug Sorenson said. “Our industrial business has done really well and that has grown.”
Haney partners with employers to come out to worksites to sell safety footwear to workers onsite. Its mobile shoe store offers popular brands such as Keen, Timberland, Thorogood, Ariat and more. The brick and mortar store carries over 27 brands.
Old-School Customer Service
One thing that customers will undoubtedly notice when entering the Haney Shoes storefront at 6060 Maple St. is it almost feels like they are taking a step back in time. “Everybody who comes through our door is treated like family, we sit them down and measure their feet, which is a rarity anymore,” Ericson said. “We’ll take care of them and listen to problems they might have. We’re able to help them out with those problems and get them in proper footwear.”
Haney Shoes has two additional locations, one focused on workwear near 108th and L streets and another in Lincoln.
The owners said one thing that has been a pinnacle in the longevity of the business has been their loyal customers who spread the word about their hands-on service and the company’s values. Another is their loyal employees. Most recently one of their employees retired at the age of 83 after working 23 years at the store. Others worked their way through high school and college.
While small, family-owned shoe stores are few and far between, the third-generation owners aren’t letting the noise of online and big box stores distract them. Sticking to what they know best and maintaining a local presence has kept them motivated.
Phone: 502-556-2022
Address: 6060 Maple St., Omaha, Nebraska 68104; 5018 S. 108th St., Omaha, Nebraska 68137; 6133 Havelock Ave., Lincoln, Nebraska 68507
Website: www.haneyshoestore.com
