Family affair: Vincent Schuler, a shoe repairman, opened the original store in 1889 at Washington and Broadway in Minneapolis. In 1925, John Schuler's father, Emmet, bought the company from Vincent's niece and nephew. John took over as the 3rd generation in 1973. In 2006, he began the transition to his four adult children Scott, Jennifer, Michael, and Marie, who are all stockholders and in the business full-time.

Employees: More than 200, including nine board certified pedorthists who specialize in fit and comfort for problem feet.

Store locations: Bloomington, Burnsville, Maple Grove, Roseville, St. Cloud, St. Louis Park (2), Wayzata, Woodbury. The Highland Park store in St. Paul opens in February.