DSW Launches Largest North American Partnership with Imbox Protection, Bringing In-Store Shoe Care to Nearly 500 Locations
Rhea-AI Summary
DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse (NYSE: DBI) has announced its largest North American retail partnership with Imbox Protection, introducing in-store shoe protection services across nearly 500 U.S. locations. The service, priced at $8.99, offers a 60-second water-based spray treatment that protects footwear from water, stains, dirt, mud, and fading for up to eight weeks.
The Imbox Protection system is UL-approved and AllergyCertified, featuring eco-conscious technology without harsh chemicals. The partnership enhances DSW's position as a comprehensive footwear destination, integrating seamlessly into the checkout process. The system has received recognition including the 2023 Consumer Electronics Show Innovation Award and the 2024 Red Dot Design Award for its innovative design.
Positive
- New revenue stream through $8.99 per treatment service
- Expansion of service offerings enhancing customer value proposition
- Partnership strengthens DSW's position as a one-stop footwear destination
- Eco-friendly initiative aligning with consumer sustainability preferences
Negative
- None.
Insights
DSW's nationwide Imbox shoe protection service creates a new $8.99 revenue stream while enhancing in-store experience and addressing sustainability concerns.
DSW's partnership with Imbox Protection represents a strategic enhancement to their in-store service offerings. By implementing this shoe protection system across nearly 500 locations, DSW is introducing a new revenue stream priced at
The service integration appears well-designed for operational efficiency, requiring just 60 seconds per application and fitting seamlessly into the checkout process. This minimizes potential friction in the customer journey while maximizing the opportunity for attachment sales. The water-based, chemical-free protection aligns with growing consumer preferences for environmentally responsible products.
From a competitive standpoint, this partnership is positioned as Imbox's largest North American retail collaboration, potentially giving DSW a temporary differentiation in the footwear retail space. The service enhances DSW's value proposition as a comprehensive footwear destination that now includes purchase, protection, care, repair, and donation services.
While the article doesn't provide financial projections or investment details, this type of service enhancement typically aims to increase average transaction value and strengthen customer relationships. The
For Designer Brands Inc., this initiative aligns with broader retail strategies of enhancing brick-and-mortar relevance through services that online-only retailers cannot easily replicate. In an increasingly competitive footwear market, these service differentiators may help reinforce DSW's position as a destination retailer rather than merely a product vendor.
Fast, eco-conscious technology that keeps shoes looking newer, longer – now available at DSW stores nationwide
COLUMBUS, Ohio, April 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, a Designer Brands company (NYSE: DBI), has launched the largest retail partnership in
Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/dsw/9330851-en-dsw-imbox-protection-partnership
Using a water-based spray, the enclosed Imbox machine shields shoes from water, stains, dirt, mud and fading – all without the use of harsh chemicals. This touch-free, in-store service costs just
"We're always looking for ways to deliver more value to our customers, and Imbox does just that," said Laura Davis, President of DSW. "This partnership elevates the in-store experience by offering an easy, effective way to protect the shoes our customers love. It's innovation that meets them where they are—right at checkout—and reflects our commitment to enhancing customer value, supporting sustainability and investing in services that elevate every step."
"This rollout marks a powerful expansion of our presence in the North American retail landscape," said René Charles Marker, CEO and Founder of Imbox. "DSW understands how to connect innovation with everyday value, and together, we're helping redefine what post-purchase service looks like in footwear retail."
The Imbox Protection unit is approved by Underwriters Laboratories and its spray is AllergyCertified, making it safe for indoor use and aligned with growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible solutions. Imbox also holds global patents for its technology, underscoring its leadership in automated shoe care. A 2023 Consumer Electronics Show Innovation Award honoree, the system integrates seamlessly into the DSW checkout process. Customers simply place their new shoes into the enclosed unit, and within a minute, leave the store with fully protected footwear. Imbox also received the 2024 Red Dot Design Award for its innovative, user-friendly design.
For busy parents, the benefit is clear. From muddy cleats to school sneakers, Imbox helps families get more wear from every pair, especially for kids who play hard.
This rollout marks Imbox's most extensive North American retail partnership to date. With the addition of this service, DSW strengthens its position as a one-stop destination for footwear shopping, care, repair and donation. With innovation, convenience and customer experience at its core, DSW continues to reshape what modern retail looks like—one step at a time.
Now available nationwide. Visit your nearest DSW store to try Imbox Protection and experience how easy it is to keep your shoes looking newer, longer.
About Designer Brands
Designer Brands is one of the world's largest designers, producers, and retailers of footwear and accessories, driven by a mission to be unapologetically shoe obsessed. Its portfolio includes sought-after brands such as Topo Athletic, Keds, Vince Camuto, Jessica Simpson, Kelly & Katie, Lucky Brand, Mix No. 6, and Crown Vintage. Through a robust omni-channel platform and more than 650 stores across DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe Co., and Rubino, Designer Brands delivers on-trend styles for every occasion. The company also supports private label development and global distribution through select wholesale partnerships. Committed to doing what's right, Designer Brands has donated over 11 million pairs of shoes to Soles4Souls since 2018. Learn more at www.designerbrands.com.
Media Contacts | |
Inspire PR for DSW | |
Katie Lundy | Kim Markus |
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/dsw-launches-largest-north-american-partnership-with-imbox-protection-bringing-in-store-shoe-care-to-nearly-500-locations-302437489.html
SOURCE DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse
FAQ
How much does the Imbox Protection service cost at DSW stores?
How long does the Imbox Protection treatment last on shoes at DSW?
What types of protection does the Imbox treatment at DSW provide?
How many DSW locations offer the Imbox Protection service?
