HUNTINGTON, N.Y. – This week John’s Crazy Socks, the colorful sock shop founded by John Cronin and his father Mark Cronin, celebrated its ten‑year anniversary. The family‑owned business, which began in 2016 when John was still a high‑school senior, has grown from a modest online venture to a brick‑and‑mortar store that ships more than 500,000 packages to 94 countries.
From a high‑school idea to a global brand
John recalls the moment he decided to “create my own job” after graduating from Huntington High School. After a brief brainstorm that included a food‑truck concept – which the pair quickly abandoned because “we can’t cook” – the father‑son team settled on socks. “I would sell crazy socks. It’s fun, colorful. It’ll always let me be me,” John said.
Mark and John launched a simple website and began posting videos on Facebook, starring John himself. Early orders were delivered by John himself, who drove around the neighborhood to drop off packages. In the first two weeks, the company shipped 452 orders.
Building a business with purpose
Mark explains that the socks are more than a product; they are “the physical manifestation for the story and the mission” – a mission to create joy and showcase the abilities of people with different abilities. The company now employs a growing workforce, many of whom are receiving their first job. “Hiring people with different abilities is not charity. It’s good business,” Mark said. “We succeed because of the people we hire.”
Community impact and family values
The store has become a local gathering spot where customers often receive a hug, a dad joke, or even a spontaneous dance party, according to Eyewitness News reporter Joelle Garguilo. John, who calls himself the “chief happiness officer,” says the atmosphere reflects the family’s values. “He’s an amazing dad, and I’m so lucky,” John added, noting how working together has strengthened their bond.
Beyond the storefront, the Cronins continue to expand their reach through online sales and international shipping, proving that a small idea rooted in family and faith can flourish on a global scale.
Looking ahead
As the company looks to the future, the Cronins remain focused on their core purpose: spreading joy, supporting inclusive employment, and reminding shoppers that a simple pair of socks can carry a powerful message. “We’ll keep creating joy, one pair of socks at a time,” Mark said.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
