BOB’s Footwear & Apparel Inc

Friends Jackie Austin and Julie Augustine saw an opportunity in the purchase of Bob's. It was a well-established business that had been part of the community for more than 60 years when the two stepped into it in 2014 and they couldn't be more thrilled with their newest venture.

It wasn't Jackie's first business venture though. "I've stumbled upon it a couple of times," she jokes about entrepreneurship. In fact, Jackie comes from a family of entrepreneurs, several of whom also operate businesses in Williams Lake. Both Jackie and Julie are proud to be infusing new life into Bob's, expanding its product lines beyond the shoes it has always been so well known for. They are also proud to offer exceptional customer service, something that they feel is key to distinguishing them and other small, independent businesses like them from their big box competitors. Small businesses excel at personalized service, and in Julie and Jackie's experience, their customers know and appreciate this fact.

Being able to tailor their services and carry products that appeal to a local market gives Julie and Jackie a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction as business owners. They also appreciate the flexibility that comes with operating their own business. Having such control over their schedules and their lives allows them both to do the things that they enjoy. They are outdoors lovers and enjoy recreational activities that involve the outdoors like walking, running and biking.