Your Partner on the Ground. With you Every Step of the way.

Time after time, international brands have failed to crack the U.S.

With high operational costs, a lack of local expertise, and limited brand recognition, the U.S. poses a significant challenge for global brands. Without the right strategy or local partner, many fail to establish a foothold in this competitive market.

That’s where we come in.

We’ve created a model that allows for ease of entry into the biggest retail market in the world.

By localizing the skills and experience that you need, we operate as a seamless extension of your team.

From crafting a tailored go-to-market strategy to managing local fulfilment logistics, we provide a comprehensive suite of services to lay the foundations for long-term growth.

Why Runway?

We’re All In.

As you partner, we’re all in. From wholesale account management, to Amazon optimization and everything in between, we act as your full service U.S. team.

We Know the Market.

Our team of U.S. retail experts bring decades of experience. We know the landscape and we’re proud of our long-standing relationships.

We Get You.

We know what it’s taken to build your brand. We’ll share your vision and we’ll care how you get there - championing you with the quality you deserve.

Our Team

  • Justin Lilja “JL”

    CEO

    Justin has over 20 years of experience in US Omni-Channel Retail across Major US Department Stores and Fashion Brands. Multidisciplinary retail-related experience across Senior Leadership, Strategic Planning, Global Sales, Buying and Merchandising and US Business Operations. 

  • Justin Buck “JB”

    HEAD OF SALES

    Justin Buck has 20+ years of experience in retail sales and account management. For the last 8 years, he has worked as Director of Sales for luxury handbag brand, Hammitt. Previously at Fossil, he leads account management across department stores, military bases, independent boutiques, corporate markets and various ECOMM platforms.

  • Emma Layton “Emma”

    HEAD OF DIGITAL PLATFORMS

    Emma has worked in retail for 12 years for leading UK brands including Ted Baker, Mint Velvet and Radley. While at Radley, USA, she was a key member of the team helping to grow the influence of the brand in a new market and managing key accounts across the business.

  • Lauren Bitar "Lauren"

    HEAD OF BRAND STRATEGY

    Lauren has nearly 20 years of industry experience working for and consulting with retailers and brands across the globe. Her work has focused on merchandising, brand strategy, store experience, and customer insights for major US retailers including Macy's, Saks, and Sephora, and brands including L'Oreal, Tiffany & Co., and Levi's.

  • Justin Stead “JS”

    CHAIRMAN

    Justin has over 30 years of Executive Leadership experience in International business for Major US Retailers and Brands including May Dept Store, Fossil, Watches of Switzerland Group, and Radley. Currently Chairing a number of Premium British Brands in the UK in addition to sitting on various Boards.