Open for Business

AcuStep Foot Center

Salina, Kan.-based Acustep LLC opened its first retail AcuStep Foot Center on Nov. 2 at 2137 W. Republic Road. AcuStep manufactures motion-based, custom foot orthotics based on an in-shoe, peak pressure gait analysis. AcuStep is owned by Dr. Jerry Fullen, who developed the company's patented technology with his brother George, an engineer. "We have developed a sensor ray that actually goes in your shoe, and we're taking measurements while you're walking or running, identifying where your higher pressure points are based on your actual gait," said Jason Barnhouse, vice president of operations in Springfield. That data is used to create orthotics that reduce pressure, he said. The company operates as a diabetic foot ulcer prevention clinic, but Barnhouse said it also works with the general public, including athletes who want to make sure they have the proper footwear to prevent injuries. The orthotics are available for $195 a pair. Shoes, including brands such as Brooks and Durea, run $100 to $250, though Barnhouse said the orthotics can be used in shoes bought elsewhere. Barnhouse works with Gary Smith, vice president of human resources, and a medical assistant at the local center. Hours: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Phone: (417) 447-3672.



Internal Revenue Service Taxpayer Assistance Center

The Internal Revenue Service on Jan. 11 relocated its Springfield Taxpayer Assistance Center to 2937 S. Claremont Ave., Bldg. A, in Claremont Commons II. The center previously was at 3333 S. National Ave.; while some local IRS employees remain there, spokesman Michael Devine said they will relocate to Claremont Commons later this month. The new location has larger interview areas that Devine said would help provide taxpayer privacy. The IRS has 52 employees in Springfield, and while many are seen only by appointment or work in the field, the Taxpayer Assistance Center is open to the public to answer tax questions, he said. Hours: 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; closed daily noon-1 p.m. Phone: (417) 889-9828.

Johnny Mac's Sporting Goods

St. Louis-based Johnny Mac's Sporting Goods Stores Inc. opened a 20,000-square-foot Springfield store Jan. 2 at 3500 S. Glenstone Ave. Founder John MacArthur opened his first store in 1967. Springfield's store is the chain's eighth; only one other, in Lansing, Mich., is outside of metropolitan St. Louis. Store manager Steve Locke said there are 26 employees in Springfield. The retailer sells sports equipment and licensed team apparel as well as team uniforms for schools and companies. Brands carried by the company include Rawlings, Russell Athletic, Nike and Under Armour, according to www.johnnymacs.com. Hours: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Sunday. Phone: (417) 799-2600.Springfield Business Journal brings you new businesses each week. Send business info by e-mail to sbj@sbj.net or by fax to (417) 799-0603.