Ron DiMenna, the visionary founder of the iconic Ron Jon Surf Shop, has passed away at the age of 88. DiMenna transformed surfing from a fringe activity into a mainstream retail phenomenon, building his brand into a globally recognized symbol of surf and beach culture. His innovative approach and passion for the sport left an indelible mark on the industry.
Key Takeaways
- Ron DiMenna, founder of Ron Jon Surf Shop, died at 88.
- He started the business in 1959 by selling surfboards from his car.
- The company’s flagship store in Cocoa Beach became a major tourist attraction.
- DiMenna also co-founded a foundation dedicated to preserving Florida’s beaches.
From Car Trunk to Retail Empire
DiMenna’s entrepreneurial journey began in 1959 when he started selling surfboards from the trunk of his car in New Jersey. After his father encouraged him to buy three boards and sell two, DiMenna’s passion for surfing quickly translated into a burgeoning business. He opened his first small shop on Long Beach Island, New Jersey, in 1961.
Florida Expansion and Iconic Flagship
In 1963, DiMenna moved to Florida and established a surf shack on Canaveral Pier. This location, situated near the Kennedy Space Center, benefited from the influx of tourists drawn to the area for the Apollo launches and its pristine beaches. The shop steadily grew, eventually expanding to encompass a 52,000-square-foot flagship store in Cocoa Beach, which has become a must-visit destination for surf enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Legacy of Surf Culture and Conservation
Ron Jon Surf Shop is now a prominent retailer with multiple locations across Florida and other states, its distinctive logo recognized worldwide. DiMenna was described by friends as a private individual with a grand vision who turned surfing into a "mainstream retail juggernaut." Beyond his retail success, DiMenna, along with his wife Lynne, founded the Surfing’s Evolution & Preservation Foundation. This non-profit organization supports initiatives aimed at protecting Florida’s beaches and combating coastal pollution, raising funds through specialty license plate sales.
Michele Goodwin, president of Ron Jon Surf Shop, stated that DiMenna "lived life on his own terms and created a retail empire that remains one of the most successful beach shopping destinations in the country." His vision and legacy are expected to endure through the continued success of Ron Jon Surf Shop and the foundation.
