Ron Jon’s Awards Grant

Ron Jon Surf Shop has awarded the School of Management a marketing research grant for two projects. Headed by Dr. B. Andrew Cudmore, assistant professor of
marketing, the two-phase grant will be used to perform extensive consumer research at all five Ron Jon Surf Shop locations over the next year. “We are
hoping this research will give Ron Jon Surf Shop enhanced insight regarding their customers,” said Dr. Cudmore. Dr. Cudmore’s research will focus on
examining two issues: how customers identify with each Ron Jon location and “what is the Ron Jon experience.” The results will help the company make
essential, proactive decisions. Ron Jon Surf Shop hopes the research will provide a better understanding of their customers and how they perceive the
retailer and its stores. “Our ultimate goal is to better serve our customers,” said Ed Moriarty, president, Ron Jon Surf Shop. “We will use the research to
further determine our customers’ needs.” Ron Jon Surf Shop was founded in 1961 when surfing enthusiast Ron DiMenna began selling surfboards at his tiny
oceanside shop in Long Beach Island, N.J. The lifestyle-apparel and board-sports-equipment retailer has since opened stores in Cocoa Beach, Ft. Lauderdale,
and Orlando Fla., and Orange, Calif. The company’s flagship store in Cocoa Beach is the world’s largest surf shop. It operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a
year. Visit Ron Jon Surf Shop online at www.ronjons.com.