Great Outdoor Provision Co. welcomes exciting changes in its 40th Year

This spring marks the 40th birthday of Great Outdoor Provision Co. As the company moves into a fifth decade they are rolling out changes that will better prepare the company’s future as an independent specialty outdoor retailer.

The first change is the new position being assumed by Bob Sears. Bob, the company’s veteran technical buyer was hired in 1980 when the company had two 900 sq. ft. stores. Starting immediately, Bob will take on his new role under the title of “Spec Ops”. All who know him can appreciate Bob’s new title as he continues to equip Great Outdoor Provision Co. through his services in the technical equipment category. Tom Valone, owner of Great Outdoor Provision Co., shared his appreciation for Bob and looks forward to working with him in the future. “Bob is a great retailer, has great work ethic, is a team player, has uncanny product sense, strong loyalty, and is a great friend as well as a colleague.”

In addition, Great Outdoor Provision Co. announced that Rich Chisholm will be taking over the role of technical buyer for the company. Rich is a world class climber, and enthusiastic backpacker, and committed to products that make the outdoors safer, easier to access, and more fun. Further, Rich is a seasoned climbing buyer and looks forward to adding additional hardgoods to his product mix.

Finally, Darren Schwartz will serve as the new manager of the Winston-Salem store where Rich Chisholm once served. Darren has been with Great Outdoor Provision Co. for nearly two decades. He is an innovative and effective leader with proven management skills and applying those most recently in Winston-Salem where he takes on the position of manager with the full support of his staff.

When asked about the significance of these changes, Tom responded, “Forty years in the stern seat is quite a ride. What makes this old Mule grin is that we’ve paddled hard, we’ve navigated well, and most of all, we are still enjoying the trip. These changes assure that our next 40 years will be as strong and prosperous as the last.”