Shady Rays | Simpsonville headquarters focuses on customer experience
“WHEN I FIRST STARTED SHADY RAYS, I was just a guy who saw an opportunity to solve a problem for people—losing and breaking sunglasses.”
Initially operating in 2012 out of a bedroom at his parents’ house in Louisville, Chris Ratterman implemented his business plan: quality and affordable sunglasses with exceptional customer service, highlighted by a protection program he says customers “desperately craved.”
He was on to something. As online orders swelled, the business expanded to the formal living room which became a makeshift warehouse and processing center. Chris’ parents helped deliver the packed orders to the neighborhood post office.
Buoyed by online buzz and national marketing, Shady Rays debuted storefronts and hired dozens of people. After outgrowing even real warehouse space, in March the company opened a new 75,000-square-foot warehouse and headquarters in Simpsonville, served by Shelby Energy.
“We are so excited to count Shady Rays as a member of our co-op,” says Mary Beth Dennis, Shelby Energy’s communications and member services director. “We love their durable and stylish sunglasses, and their shared commitment to community is equally impressive.”
Jenny Howard, the company’s strategic communications director, says giving back to the community has always been a core part of its DNA: “Whether it’s partnering with local nonprofits, supporting small businesses or spearheading sustainability initiatives, we’re constantly looking for ways to use our success to make a positive impact.”
Chris Ratterman, founder
of Shady Rays, set out
to create quality and
affordable sunglasses,
focusing the business
on customer service
and a great protection
program. Shown is the
classic timber style in
black. Photo: Shady Rays
“Shelby Energy has been an incredible partner in making our Simpsonville headquarters a reality,” says COO Dan Ratterman, Chris’s brother. He calls the co-op’s commitment to sustainability and renewable energy solutions “a perfect match for our own environmental priorities.
“Beyond just supplying power, Shelby Energy has been a true collaborative partner, offering strategic guidance and support to ensure the facility is optimized for our needs.”
Chris Ratterman calls his company’s team “the real secret sauce,” describing them as “driven, creative individuals who share my entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to the brand.
“Together, we’ve been able to take calculated risks, quickly capitalize on emerging trends, and make big moves that have positioned Shady Rays as an industry leader. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m so proud of how far we’ve come.”
New, expanded facility
Shady Rays COO Dan Ratterman says the company’s new facility in Simpsonville is a “a major milestone” and “an absolute game-changer for our operations.”
“With significantly more warehouse space, upgraded logistics and cutting-edge fulfillment systems, we’ll be able to process and ship orders faster than ever before,” he says.
“But beyond the practical benefits, this facility is a symbol of how far we’ve come as a company. It’s a physical representation of our growth, our ambition, and our dedication to providing an unparalleled customer experience.”
