Taking the Next Step: STOKE Shoes Selects Barrett Distribution Centers as Omnichannel Fulfillment Partner

FRANKLIN, Mass., Aug. 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As STOKE Shoes prepares for its next phase of growth, the emerging footwear brand has selected Barrett Distribution Centers as its omnichannel fulfillment and third-party logistics (3PL) partner. STOKE is redefining comfort and fit for consumers seeking premium footwear designed for wider feet.

"Barrett moved quickly, communicated clearly, and understood what we needed as a startup brand preparing for growth," said Rick Blackshaw, founder of STOKE Shoes. "Their team brought the operational experience, technology guidance, and partnership mindset we needed to support our customers and retail partners from day one."

Founded in 2025, STOKE Shoes was created to serve men often overlooked by traditional athletic footwear brands, with shoes designed for wide and wider feet. The brand launched with a direct-to-consumer model and has since expanded into retail distribution, including placement in more than 450 stores nationwide.

STOKE's momentum continues with the recent addition of sports media personality and creator Caleb Pressley as creative lead and partner. Known for his Sundae Conversation interview series and distinctive presence across sports and digital media, Pressley will collaborate with STOKE on creative campaigns, content and brand development. The partnership also includes plans for a signature STOKE shoe expected later this year, adding another dimension to the brand's growing presence across retail, digital and cultural channels.

Barrett was selected for its experience with start-up and high-growth footwear brands, strong references, responsive implementation approach, and ability to provide scalable omnichannel fulfillment across multiple facilities. STOKE's team was also impressed by Barrett's Montebello facility, team energy, operational cleanliness, and technology-enabled approach.

"From our first conversation, it was clear that STOKE had the vision, leadership, and brand discipline to scale quickly," said Scott Hothem, senior vice president of customer solutions at Barrett. "Rick and his team were looking for more than a fulfillment provider. They needed a partner with deep footwear experience, strong systems expertise, and the ability to support both DTC and retail growth. We're proud to help bring that vision to life."

Barrett's fulfillment capabilities include B2C and B2B omnichannel fulfillment, pick and pack, warehousing, value-added services, managed transportation, retail compliance, and technology-enabled reporting. The company's national footprint and experience across apparel, footwear, consumer products, food and beverage, health and beauty, and ecommerce make it a strong partner for brands scaling across channels.

As STOKE reaches vast audiences and expands its retail presence, Barrett provides the fulfillment support behind that growth. With experience supporting emerging footwear brands across direct-to-consumer and retail channels, Barrett was selected to help STOKE scale its omnichannel operation.

About STOKE Shoes
Most guys are wearing shoes that are too narrow: 75% of men have wide feet but only 25% are wearing wide shoes. This means squished toes, collapsed arches, and shot posture. STOKE was built to fix all that.  At STOKE, we don't do "medium." Our shoes come in two widths: WIDE (E/2E) and WIDER (3E/4E) that actually match your foot anatomy. We've designed STOKE around your full foot; not just your length, but your width, girth, and foot splay.

STOKE shoes are made for Splay not Containment so your foot can spread out and do its job.

About Barrett Distribution Centers
Barrett Distribution is a leading third-party logistics (3PL) provider delivering customized warehousing, fulfillment, transportation, and value-added logistics solutions for growing brands. With decades of experience managing complex supply chains, Barrett serves apparel, footwear, consumer products, and other high-touch industries, helping brands scale efficiently and deliver exceptional customer experiences. Barrett has also been recognized as one of Inc.'s Fastest-Growing Private Companies in America more than 15 times, reflecting its long-term growth and commitment to helping clients succeed. Barrett combines experienced people, flexible operations, advanced technology, and a highly customized approach to meet each client's unique needs. From direct-to-consumer and ecommerce fulfillment to retail and omnichannel distribution, Barrett provides the expertise and infrastructure brands need to scale with speed, accuracy, and service.

SOURCE Barrett Distribution Centers Inc.