For almost 80 years, Carlisle’s iconic Chivers Sports has been serving the local running and sporting community.
Thousands of pairs of football and rugby boots, running shoes, hockey sticks and sports kit have kept the city’s athletes, schools, amateur teams and sports groups going with the best equipment, footwear and apparel over the years.
The family-run firm was founded in 1945 by Colin Chivers, then taken on by his nephews Malcolm Brodie and Stuart Goodman. The pair led Chivers to become the city’s only specialist retailer of bespoke running and fitness equipment and developed a reputation for expert knowledge and first-class customer service.
As the pair look forward to a well-earned retirement, the business has been taken over by Carlisle businessman Paul Wasilkowski, who plans to build on the firm’s legacy and be at the forefront of Carlisle’s growing running and fitness scene.
Paul, who is a partner in the city’s Boyd Hair and Beauty Salon and a well-known independent car trader, is keen to expand the online presence and support local running groups and athletes.
“I have been a customer for many years, and I know how important Chivers has been for so many local people. It was a no-brainer for me when the opportunity to take it over came along.
“It’s a real learning curve for me, but I am excited by the opportunity to continue the journey and make Chivers the go-to destination for runners and people who want a first-class service, from technical knowledge to customer service and specialist products,” said Paul.
Outgoing director Malcolm is pleased to be handing over the reins to a loyal customer.
He said: “We are delighted to be passing Chivers on to a local family man who is passionate about maintaining the high standards of customer service and reputation for expert knowledge we have developed over the years.
“It is comforting to know that Chivers will continue to be part of the city’s sporting community and I will enjoy spending more time with my grandchildren knowing the business is in good hands.
“Paul understands how important Chivers has been to generations of people over the decades and I am confident he’ll build on this and make sure Chivers is around for many years to come!”
Retaining four members of staff, including founder Colin Chivers niece Margaret Greer, the business will continue to offer specialist running footwear and clothing, with brands such as Brooks, Saucony, On Cloud and Hoka offering products that are not available anywhere else in the region.
Consultations are offered from the Abbey Street shop opposite Carlisle Castle, helping customers identify the best products for their needs, goals and body type.
Paul, who is 57 and lives in Wetheral near Carlisle said: “I understand the value of having a retail space where people can come and get the best advice and support to find the right product for them. That’s our USP – you just can’t find this elsewhere locally or on the web.
“It’s important to invest in a new e-commerce system and build our online offer, but it’s just as important to make sure Chivers remains in the city and is a place where customers know they’re going to get a fantastic experience and leave with the best possible product that is right for what they need.”
The takeover will see Chivers remaining a family-run business, with Paul’s wife Suzie looking after admin and HR duties and teenage sons Theo and Matt working in the shop in their spare time. Paul’s stepson Todd is also helping develop the online marketing and social media strategy, taking advantage of the shop’s central location opposite Carlisle Castle to provide a unique backdrop for promoting the product range.
There is also an ambition to support local athletes through promotion and potential sponsorship for running clubs and events such as Parkrun.
“The health and fitness sector is growing rapidly and having a specialist local service and retailer is key to supporting our athletic talent.
“It’s such an exciting opportunity and I am very proud to be taking this iconic Carlisle brand forward as well as helping make sure our local running and fitness enthusiasts have the best equipment, advice and knowledge on hand to help them achieve their goals,” said Paul.
The shop is currently undergoing a revamp inside and outside, with new flooring providing an artificial running surface to help customers try on footwear in a realistic setting. New display windows and signage will also be added over the next few weeks.
“Chivers has a very loyal customer base and I am committed to providing the best products, service and expertise to runners and athletes, and growing this very special local business to reach more people, whether they’re local or from further afield. We have the passion, enthusiasm and knowledge to help people find the best products to achieve their ambitions,” said Paul.
