In August 2006, St. Louisan Matt Helbig founded Big River Running Company with one location and two employees. Now, a decade later, it has grown to four locations and nearly 30 employees.

“The journey these last 10 years has been incredible,” said Helbig.

Big River has been named one of “The 50 Best Running Stores in America” by Running Insight and Competitor magazine every year it has been in business, and in 2015 it was honored with the Ubuntu award, which recognizes excellence in community service and involvement.

“Engaging the running community in an authentic way has been at the core of Big River’s mission from the beginning,” said Helbig.

Big River puts on clinics, hosts free group runs and training teams, mentors young runners, collects and donates thousands of shoes for the less fortunate, and partners with non-profits like Girls on the Run and GO! St. Louis. Since 2006, it has hosted 1,500+ group runs and has had 20,000+ people participate in its community programs.

“I’m even more excited about the future, as we remain focused on giving our customers the best possible experience every time they walk into our stores,” said Helbig.