WALKER BROTHERS OPENS NEW STORE

While many retailers are closing doors these days, Arkansas retailer Walker Brothers (with roots dating back to 1903) is opening them, most recently replacing an existing store in Rogers with a bigger and better space in a new location. Says CEO Thomas Cole, “We invested here because the community is growing. With Walmart aggressively hiring, people are moving to Rogers and to adjacent communities. With our 122 years in northwest Arkansas, we know our customers well and how best to serve them.”

Adds buyer Caylen Byrd, “We’re a fourth-generation business and the premier destination for fine menswear in northwest Arkansas. Our motto is “serve well” meaning customer service is all-important.”

Here, a short catch-up with Thomas and Caylen about the future.

Most retailers are closing doors these days; why are you opening and expanding?

We’re fortunate to be in an area that’s continuing to experience rapid growth thanks to several Fortune 500 companies’ investment in and around our state and communities. Beyond that, we also believe in our mission of delivering “life-giving local retail.” The only product that can be uniquely ours is an excellent service experience; we believe local retail can provide relationships that positively impact our communities.

What’s selling best in menswear these days?

With a foundation in service and relationships, clothing and unique sportswear continue to sell very well. We have found it increasingly important to continue to search for unique lines and products that bring fresh ideas to our customers.

To what extent are you concerned about tariffs, inflation, the stock market, the precarious state if the world?

We have not experienced the impact of tariffs yet, but are well aware of price increases around the corner. We will continue to focus on where quality and value meet to provide the best possible service to our customers.

What do you see as the greatest challenges you’re now up against?

The greatest challenge/question we have to answer: how do we unite the industry in a way that ensures its longevity while providing value to our customer? For many other industries, growth has led to consolidation, but in the process, has destroyed the all-important personal touch and focus on relationships. We must work together better, with a continued focus on the customer. This is the biggest opportunity we have to ensure the future of men’s specialty retail. So it’s our greatest opportunity but at the same time, our biggest threat.