Chattanooga’s Rock/Creek Outfitters Transforms into Gearhead Outfitters
Chattanooga, get ready for a change! The beloved outdoor retailer, Rock/Creek Outfitters, is officially rebranding to Gearhead Outfitters, as announced on their social media channels. This transformation marks an exciting new chapter for the company after its acquisition back in 2019 by Gearhead Outfitters, an Arkansas-based company with a deep-rooted love for outdoor adventure.
A Bit of Background
To understand this shift, let’s take a quick trip down memory lane. Rock/Creek, known for its dedication to providing outdoor gear and promoting local conservation, became part of the Uncle Dan’s Outfitters family in 2018. Just a year later, in August 2019, Gearhead Outfitters saw the potential in Rock/Creek and moved swiftly to make it their own. This decision was crucial as it ensured that the stores wouldn’t close their doors forever. The founder of Gearhead, Ted Herget, shared how, during their initial visit to Chattanooga, they discovered a shared passion for the outdoors and community. “From the moment that our team visited Chattanooga and got to meet the Rock/Creek team, we knew that these were our kind of people,” he stated in a video on the Gearhead Outfitters website.
Why the Change?
As part of the rebranding, the company aims to keep up with changing times while remaining committed to its core values. Gearhead Outfitters was founded in 1997 in Jonesboro, Arkansas, starting as a small, family-owned business focused on community engagement. Today, it thrives with 22 locations across the South. Herget emphasized that their mission to deliver exceptional customer service and support the community will continue, even as they adopt the new name. He said, “We’re a family-owned business, and that’s something we take pride in.”
What to Expect
For the folks of Chattanooga, this rebrand brings exciting updates! The community can look forward to grand opening parties set for this Friday and Saturday. Expect new signage at all the stores to reflect the Gearhead Outfitters name and vibe. With three Chattanooga locations situated on Riverside Drive, Hamilton Place Boulevard, and Manufacturers Road, along with stores in Cleveland and Benton, the company aims to become a staple in the local outdoor retail scene.
Continuing the Legacy
Chattanooga is witnessing a boom in outdoor recreation, being recognized as one of the fastest-growing outdoor communities in the nation. Herget expressed his excitement for the area by saying, “Chattanooga has so much to offer in terms of outdoor recreation, and the population is incredibly diverse.” This new phase for Gearhead Outfitters aligns perfectly with the community’s passion for adventure and nature.
Final Thoughts
As Rock/Creek Outfitters transitions into Gearhead Outfitters, it represents much more than just a name change. It reflects a deep commitment to outdoor enthusiasts and the Chattanooga community. The new brand promises to maintain the same high-quality service and support for local initiatives that both customers and employees have come to love.
So, mark your calendars and head on over to join the grand opening celebrations! Let’s welcome Gearhead Outfitters to Chattanooga and embrace the journey ahead together!
