Local retail shoe store to celebrate 71 years in business
By The Greater Bakersfield Chamber
Greater Bakersfield Chamber legacy member Guarantee Shoe Center, a beloved local retail business, is preparing to commemorate its 71st anniversary in August. The store officially became a Chamber member in 1986. Their business journey began in 1953 when Nat Slepian, an experienced professional in the shoe industry, enlisted his son to join him in this new venture.
Despite his son’s limited knowledge of shoes, he placed his trust in his father’s guidance. Together, they transformed a vacant building, previously a delicatessen with a bar in the back, into the iconic establishment Bakersfield residents know today.
Over the years, Guarantee Shoe Center has exhibited resilience in the face of adversity. A devastating fire in 1970 destroyed the building, requiring a three-year reconstruction effort. The store not only recovered from this setback but also expanded, taking over the entire building and undergoing three significant remodels, each aimed at enhancing the customer experience and maintaining a commitment to full-service provision.
The underlying ethos of family has always been central to Guarantee Shoe Center. The baton was passed on to the current owner, third-generation owner Rosco Rolnick, who carries on the proud tradition that his grandfather started many years ago. The philosophy is simple: “We care about our customers, our employees and our community.”
That mindset continues today under Rosco’s watchful eye. Having begun his journey as an assistant stockboy, he assumed control of the business at 35 when his father retired. His memories of working as a cashier at 13, selling on the sales floor at 16 and serving in the army in Vietnam underscore the deep-rooted connection of the family to this business.
Beyond shoes, the family also managed several dress shops such as the Shoe Tree and the Elise Dress Shop. As the business evolved, the family streamlined its operations by consolidating these ventures while passionately maintaining a focus on delivering quality service and nurturing community bonds.
The spirit of community service became a cornerstone of Guarantee Shoe Center’s identity over three decades ago when Rosco, moved by the sight of individuals without proper footwear, initiated the first “Shoes for the Homeless” shoe drive.
Initially collecting a few hundred pairs, the drive has grown significantly over the years. “We started small, but the support from the community has been overwhelming,” he said.
This mission has grown exponentially. Partnerships with suppliers like Florsheim and Clarks has enabled the collection and distribution of thousands of new pairs of shoes to local organizations including The Open Door Network, the Mission at Kern, and the Brundage Lane Navigation Center.
“The generosity of the people in this community is truly heartwarming,” said Rosco.
Community support has been pivotal to the success of the annual shoe drive with thousands of pairs of shoes and additional resources donated by local businesses and individuals.
This annual event has garnered substantial backing, with local media and public service announcements amplifying the cause. Rosco expressed sincere gratitude for the community’s overwhelming generosity.
“We believe in giving back to the community that has supported us for so long,” he said.
The commitment to community service extends beyond the shoe drive. Guarantee Shoe Center fosters life-long relationships with local schools, businesses and organizations, providing footwear and other forms of support.
The store’s dedication to customer service has cultivated a loyal following with employees trained to offer personalized fittings and knowledgeable recommendations to ensure that customers find the ideal footwear for their needs.
Reflecting on the store’s 71-year history, Rosco emphasized the importance of giving back to the community that has sustained the business over the years.
Drawing inspiration from his grandfather’s teachings on the significance of generosity and community service, the owner reiterated how these values continue to guide the store’s operations.
“My grandfather always taught me the importance of generosity and community service,” said Rosco. These teachings continue to guide the store’s operations.
Guarantee Shoe Center is a representation of a family’s legacy that plays a crucial role in the Bakersfield community. “We are proud to be here and serve this wonderful community,” said Rosco.
To learn more, visit guaranteeshoecenter.com.
