Collector Spotlight: Mario Stumpf

Curious about how to get your start in the sneaker landscape? There’s never a simple how-to guide, but we asked our buddy Mario Stumpf to offer some friendly words of advice. As part of our ongoing Collector Spotlight series, Mario explains what it’s like working in the Euro sneaker scene! Dive in...

How did you get your start at 43einhalb and then at solebox?
43einhalb opened back in 2011 near my hometown, so I’ve been a loyal customer from day one. I was already freelancing and starting to support them in art direction and content production from three days a week to a full-time job. After four years, I decided to move on and see something different. So, the opportunity to lead the marketing department for solebox came at the perfect moment.

What are some of your best memories?
While 43einhalb was all about the family, solebox gave me the chance to work and connect on an international level. Definitely worth a mention are the sneaker collaborations I worked on, such as the 43einhalb x KangaROOS ‘OVIS’ or the solebox exclusive adidas Yung-1. I am so grateful for the opportunities to turn my personal passion into a profession.

How crucial is the community aspect of sneaker stores, and how important are the relationships with collectors?
Whilst brands are pushing their own direct consumer channels, they still need retailers and their connection to the culture to tell authentic product stories. Even though a lot of revenues are shifted towards e-commerce, stores are still shaping a big part of the sneaker culture.

If you were to impart some wisdom on the younger generation, what would it be?
This might sound like words you’d put on a t-shirt, but nevertheless: work hard. Connect with people. Be yourself. Be polite and patient.