How has moving into your new space impacted your store?

The new space took our store to the next level and still has room for growth. We were bursting at the seams in the last building, and people love the new space. My mother-in-law, Zanette, has done an amazing job creating a similar atmosphere in all three buildings we’ve occupied. Customers shop more freely here because the larger space lets them browse without feeling pressured. It also lets us showcase more, and our custom tailoring and suiting has grown exponentially because of it.

What are your top sellers right now?

In sportswear, Peter Millar remains our best seller and keeps getting better. Johnnie-O is doing tremendous, fun things, and our Martin Dingman Lodge line continues to grow.

Any new brands added to the store?

We recently added Bugatchi and Greyson. Bugatchi is elevated sportswear, and Greyson offers beautiful technical fabrics.

What new trends are you seeing?

I think we’ll see more natural fibers versus the performance materials that have dominated the last decade. That shift will take a while, though, and performance fabrics aren’t going away.

What does a shopper get at an independent store like yours that they can’t get online or at a big-box store?

Customer service sets us apart, and we carry brands that don’t want to be in big-box stores. Big-box buyers don’t know their customers personally; we know ours and listen to them. Online shopping is convenient, but it can only offer so much. Shopping on an iPad versus in a brick-and-mortar store isn’t much of a competition.

How has downtown Conway changed since you opened, and how does it affect your business when the shops and restaurants around you are doing well?

I’ve seen great businesses come and go, but downtown is prettier and stronger than when we opened more than 12 years ago. I’ve always felt that the more food, shopping, and entertainment options downtown, the better for my business. Sure, it makes parking on Oak Street hard at times, but if you’re willing to walk a block or two, there’s plenty of parking — and more to do.

What’s next for Bell & Sward?

We’re focused on growing and improving what we do. I’m still learning how to stock and maximize the new building. We’ll likely dip our toes into online sales soon, focused mainly on UCA and Arkansas Razorbacks gear. I’ll never say never on expansion, but it isn’t in the works.