Foot care is not only growing in sync with a demographic bulge, but it's also immune to seasonal fluctuations, says Spergel. And, as with other health and beauty areas, baby boomers are willing to spend on products that promise to pamper and protect. Taking a cue from consumers' love affair with herbals, both ProFoot Care and Alexandria have launched products containing tea tree oil. ProFoot Care's Tea Tree Oil for Toes is an antiseptic spray for the flaky and dry skin between toes. The younger adult, says Miltchin.
Early intervention is key.
In fact, by early next year, customers at all seven stores in the Ontario chain will be able to have a seat and 'put their feet up' while staff conduct foot analyses or do fittings for shoe supports. There's so little protection if you're wearing regular shoes. The chain is working closely with a U.S. supplier, which manufactures shoe supports and other foot care products. Herbie's staff also attend training sessions offered by the supplier. In many cases, one can circumvent going for the really high-priced stuff.