Naperville honors small businesses

After nine years of helping people who are training for races, Naperville Running Company had the endurance to make it to the winner's podium itself.

The business owned by Kris Hartner took home top honors at the 12th annual Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year Awards gala.

In addition to the overall award, Naperville Running Company also won a prize for being the top business in the six-to-30 employee category.

"There are a lot of strong businesses in Naperville, a lot of good people in the competition, and it's neat to be up there with other businesses that have won the award in the past," Hartner said.

Hartner opened the store in 2000 at 20 W. Jefferson St. in downtown Naperville and initially focused more exclusively on runners and triathletes. Since that time the business has evolved and expanded.

"We're providing a fitting process for people to put people in shoes that work best for them, give them a foundation of support whether they're running, training for a triathlon or standing or working or whatever they do," Hartner said.

The store uses an 18-step process for fittings that includes a treadmill and video recording to help analyze a person's body as they run or walk.

Hartner credits his employees, who he said are like a family, with helping make the business successful. He said he hires those who are runners themselves and have a good personality and strong work ethic.

In addition to shoes, the store sells a variety of apparel and other accessories and equipment for runners. It also holds clinics for area running groups. In 2007 is was named one of the 50 best running stores in the country.

Naperville Running Company has also become more involved in the community over the years, partnering with area schools. Hartner also serves on the city's Historic Sites Commission and the board of the Downtown Naperville Alliance. Other employees coach sports in the area.

Annmarie Siwik, chairman of the board of directors for the chamber, said there were many great businesses to choose from when selecting award winners this year. Judges typically look to honor companies that are innovative and treat their employees well.

"It's a great store," Siwik said of Naperville Running Company. "It's somebody that did what they were passionate about and took that passion and made it into a good business."

The chamber also gives out an annual Lifetime Achievement Award. This year's winner was Ray Jones of Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home. Siwik said Jones has not only been successful in business but has given back to the community.

Other winners in their individual categories based on the size of the business included Lellbach Builders, Hursthouse, Inc. and Visiting Angels/DuPage County Region.

The chamber also honored the top businesses less than five years old, including Dogs Love Running, Innovative Orthodontic Centers, Paul Gregory Media, Nona Jo's Creative Consultants, Ink Station and Naperville Dental Specialists.

In the nonprofit category, Loaves and Fishes Community Pantry took home the prize.