Flip flops are tops at two planned shops

Closed-toe shoes need not apply at a new store aiming for its first Charlotte location this summer, with another to follow in the fall: Flip Flop Shops, an Atlanta-based chain where, unsurprisingly, flip flops are the focus. Local couple Jeff and Pam Burrus plan to open one at Carolina Place mall in Pineville on July 1 - on the second level, near American Eagle - and say they're scouting sites across south Charlotte for a second location they hope to open in October or November.

Flip Flop Shops, which has 14 locations thus far and 40 more in the works, says it's the country's first retail chain devoted specifically to the summery shoes. It sells leading sandal brands such as Reef, Sanuk, Flojos, Vans, Havaianas, Olukai, Rainbow, Cobian and O'Neill in a laid-back, beach-themed setting, with prices ranging from $20 to more than $100. "Once reserved only for poolside or beachwear, flip flops have grown to become the global youth uniform, as well as accepted footwear for anyone ranging from surfers to high-level corporate executives," the company says in a news release, although I am quite sure that the latter assertion would be news to my boss, and those of plenty of other companies.

The Burruses have lived in Charlotte for 18 years, said Pam Burrus, who worked in banking before having her first child 10 years ago. Jeff Burrus was previously in the mortgage business, spending 14 years at the same company before it went out of business in February 2009. Instead of looking for another mortgage-related job, Pam said, he decided to do something on his own, and the couple began researching franchises. They kept coming back to the flip flop store, as they liked the concept and one-stop shopping aspect. They're planning to provide a relaxed experience and good customer service, Pam said.