In the vibrant world of streetwear and sneaker culture, one name is making waves in Cebu. Statoes – a reselling store for premium sneakers has quickly become a hotspot for sneaker enthusiasts in the region. Lance Louis D. Banate, the man behind Statoes, shares his journey, motivation, and aspirations for the sneaker community in Cebu.
We want to build a strong sneaker community in Cebu, organizing sneaker conventions and fostering a sense of unity among enthusiasts.
Lance Louis D. Banate
Owner, Statoes
From Online to Storefront
Statoes started its journey in the digital realm, a venture that took flight during the pandemic. “I began my online store while working in Negros,” Lance shares. “It was a side hustle that quickly grew into a passion. I named it Statoes, a play on ‘Status,’ because sneakers are now seen as a status symbol.”
The dream of having a physical storefront never left Lance’s mind. He envisioned bringing unique and sought-after sneakers to Cebu, where the reselling market was still emerging. “It was my dream to open a shop,” he states with conviction.
Running a sneaker business comes with its unique challenges. “Meeting up with customers used to be a struggle, especially when commuting with a load of sneakers,” Lance admits. “But even harder was building our online presence, making sure we reach as many sneakerheads as possible.”
Fast forward to today, Statoes has become a reality, celebrating its first brick-and-mortar branch six months after opening its doors on March 18th this year.
Passion Meets Profession
Lance Louis D. Banate, owner of Statoes. (PHOTO BY: JAMES AMISTAD)
Sneakers are more than just products to Lance; they are a passion. “Personally, I’m a big fan of Jordan 1 High, Nike Dunk Low, and Yeezys,” he confesses. “Working on this doesn’t feel like a job to me. Even on long days, it never feels tiring because it’s something I genuinely love.”
Despite holding a professional license as a Mechanical Engineer, Lance made a deliberate choice to transition from his engineering career to pursue his passion for sneakers, turning it into a full-fledged profession. This decision is a testament to the depth of his dedication to footwears.
It’s evident that his genuine affection for sneakers propels him forward in his entrepreneurial journey, infusing every step he takes with enthusiasm and authenticity. This passion-driven approach has not only fueled his business but also endeared him to fellow sneaker enthusiasts and customers alike, making Statoes more than just a store but a vibrant hub for the Cebu sneaker community.
Connecting with Cebu Customers
What sets Statoes apart in Cebu is its dedication to customer service. “Customers appreciate having a legitimate sneaker shop right here in Cebu,” Lance explains. “I love interacting with customers, answering their questions about upcoming releases and helping them find the perfect pair.”
Statoes boasts an extensive collection of sneakers, catering to a diverse range of tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Dunks, the iconic Jordans, or seeking the trendiest releases, Statoes has your footwear desires covered.
But that’s not all; the store goes above and beyond sneakers, offering coveted brands like Yeezys, Supreme, Travis Scott, and Champion, ensuring that you can complete your streetwear ensemble in style.
Additionally, Statoes understands the importance of sneaker maintenance, and they stock a range of high-quality sneaker care products to help you keep your kicks looking fresh and pristine for years to come. With Statoes, it’s not just about owning sneakers; it’s about curating a comprehensive and stylish sneaker lifestyle.
Future Footsteps
Statoes’ journey has only just begun. Lance has big plans for the brand’s future. “We aim to expand, open more branches, and perhaps even relocate to larger spaces. We want to build a strong sneaker community in Cebu, organizing sneaker conventions and fostering a sense of unity among enthusiasts.”
Statoes transcends the typical notion of a sneaker store; it embodies the unwavering passion and commitment of its owner, Lance Banate, while also serving as a symbol of aspiration for Cebu’s rapidly growing sneaker culture.
With each limited edition release and exclusive drop, Statoes doesn’t merely strive to keep its customers fashionable; it aspires to elevate them to new heights of style, embodying the very essence of “Stay Fly.”
Stay connected with Statoes through Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, and Carousell. Don’t let their end-of-season sale slip by, running until October 1, 2023, where you can indulge in up to a 10% discount on all in-stock sneakers. Statoes welcomes you every day from 11 am to 8 pm, conveniently situated at Eden’s Place, at the corner of C. Rosal & Acacia Streets in Lahug, Cebu City, 6000.
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