July 21, 2008 — The first of many HORSATACK stores to open in the United States will hold a Grand Opening Weekend July 25-27 at its new 13,000 square-foot location in the Northtowne Plaza at the intersection of DeKalb and Germantown Pikes in Norristown, Pa. The franchise has 58 stores overseas and is just making its way into the U.S. market.
HORSATACK spokesperson James Sinclair said considerable research went into choosing the first location.
“We knew it was an underserved market,” he said. “While there aren’t many horse owners in the heart of Norristown, we knew that there was a considerable equestrian population in the surrounding areas, and that these individuals came to Norristown to shop and work. The equestrian community has welcomed us with open arms.”
“I’m thrilled,” said Dr. Thomas A. Fitzpatrick, president of the Philadelphia Saddle Club, based out of Monastery Stable in the Mount Airy section of Philadelphia. “With five horses in the club, it gets expensive to shop by mail order. Our members also like to try out saddles and helmets in person. The nearest saddle shop right now is in Worcester, and that’s a hike.”
HORSATACK has invested in a mechanical horse or Saddle Testing Unit (STU). In the store, riders can canter in the saddles and get a personalized saddle fit.
At the Grand Opening Weekend celebration, the store is also offering a chance at a $3,000 shopping spree if an individual becomes a member. Grand Opening activities will include face painting, balloons, show bags and door prizes.
HORSATACK is offering the first eight franchise opportunities and is inviting individuals interested in owning their own business to contact the franchise manager, Dirk Heinert, at 888-MY-HORSATACK or 800-694-6772. For more information, hours and directions, go to www.horsatack.com.
