The shop is located in the Washington Square shopping center, 6145 Far Hills Ave.
A self-proclaimed Savior of Soles, Head is a third-generation shoe craftsman, who started polishing shoes for his grandfather’s Columbus shoe shop, before becoming proficient in all aspects of shoe repair and opening Unique Shoe Repair in Columbus. During the intervening years, Head managed to overcome challenges like alcoholism with a faith that led him to become a Christian minister and pastor at the Rejoice Praise and Worship Center in Columbus. In addition to the two shoe shops, he also owns Unique Christian Book Store in Columbus.
What makes the business stand out: Head focuses on quality and customer satisfaction. He has a special interest in helping customers with special needs like orthotics and derives great pleasure watching clients walk with greater assurance in shoes repaired at his shop.
Head and his wife and co-owner Susie, emphasize the depth of experience that Head has and his expertise in fixing anything from luggage handles, wheels and missing buttons to removing scuff marks from women’s designer shoe heels and zippers on purses. Lee Granger is the third co-owner.
How the business started: Head met Carl and Judy Helms at a shoe convention in Columbus and learned that they planned to sell their shop. Head and his partners researched the Dayton market and decided to expand into the area.
“We walked into the shop and knew a lot about the community just by looking at the shoes on the shelves,” said Granger, of the recession-proof business that sells shoes when the economy is strong and repairs shoes during contractions.
Head and his partners upgraded some equipment, but decided to keep the venerable Helms name, because of the reputation it had gained in the community.
Customer comment: “I get good service and good workmanship here,” said Tom Connair. “The shoes I have repaired are as good as new even if they’re 10 years old. I’m used to coming here. I believe in staying with something good when it’s there.”
Contact information: Hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. For more information, call (937) 610-2900.
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