Each month, our Real People. Real Connections. series shines a spotlight on the people and businesses that bring our community to life. These are the clients whose stories go beyond business reflecting passion, legacy, and the connections that make Tampa Bay stronger.

This month, we proudly spotlight Faklis FIT of Tarpon Springs, a family-owned business whose legacy began in 1912, when Vasile Faklis, a skilled shoemaker from Symi, Greece, turned his American dream into reality. After arriving in the United States in 1908 and serving in the U.S. Army during World War I, Vasile returned to Tarpon Springs to establish Faklis Department Store and Shoe Repair. His dedication to craftsmanship and community laid the foundation for a business that has thrived for over a century.

Today, third-generation owner Vasile Faklis is a board-certified, state-licensed orthotist offering comprehensive orthotics, pedorthics, gait analysis, and biomechanical evaluations. With over 20 years of experience in footwear and corrective foot care, Vasile and his team specialize in helping clients not only treat issues but also prevent injury and perform their best.

Standing for over a century on Tarpon Avenue, Faklis FIT is recognized as the oldest continuous business in Tarpon Springs. More than a store, it’s a living part of the town’s history. Generations of the Faklis family have kept traditions alive while embracing innovation from handcrafted shoe repair to modern orthotics and an updated digital presence.

At Faklis FIT, customer service means more than selling shoes. Every client receives one-on-one attention, careful evaluation, and solutions tailored to their lifestyle and goals. Whether you’re an athlete, someone with specialized medical needs, or simply looking for comfort and quality, Faklis FIT delivers a level of care that has kept clients coming back for over a century.

At KUDUCOM, we are proud to support and work alongside family-owned, legacy businesses like Faklis FIT—businesses that not only serve their customers with excellence, but also carry forward the traditions and values that make our community stronger.

Connect with Faklis FIT

Visit: 139 E. Tarpon Ave, Tarpon Springs, FL
Call: (727) 937-3602
Learn more: https://faklisfit.myshopify.com/