COVER STORY
Chris Crain Customs Brings Vehicle Customization to Conway
In the heart of the redeveloping Markham District, Chris Crain Customs has established itself as a primary destination for vehicle personalization and preservation. Located at 1061 Markham St., the business serves as a specialized detail and accessory shop, providing a range of aesthetic and protective services to automotive, residential, and commercial clients throughout Conway and the surrounding communities.
The operation focuses specifically on customization, catering to a diverse range of client needs. While the business is part of the broader Chris Crain Enterprises organization, its services are available to all vehicle owners, regardless of where a car or truck was originally purchased. This inclusive approach is central to the mission of helping owners transform a standard vehicle into one that reflects their personal preferences and lifestyle.
At the core of the mission is the concept of tailoring a vehicle to a driver’s specific vision. General Manager Brett Berry emphasizes that the goal is to bridge the gap between a factory-standard vehicle and a personalized machine.
FOCUS
Downtown Momentum
Downtown Conway is evolving into one of the city’s most dynamic districts for business, employment, and urban living.
Small Shops, Shared Growth: Inside Downtown’s Retail Engine
From legacy storefronts to newer boutiques, shopping remains a primary driver of foot traffic and economic activity. Read the full story here.
Downtown’s Growing Role as an Employment Center
More than 2,900 employees now work in the district each weekday, reinforcing downtown’s role as one of Conway’s most concentrated job centers. Read more.
Downtown is Becoming a Place to Call Home
As housing options expand, downtown is becoming an increasingly attractive choice for residents seeking walkability and proximity. Get the full story here.
EXECUTIVE Q&A WITH BIG BAD BREAKFAST’S BEN BRAINARD
Why Conway
What drew Big Bad Breakfast to Conway, and what the brand saw in the market.
Why Big Bad Breakfast is Betting on Downtown Conway
Big Bad Breakfast’s arrival in Conway marks another step in the brand’s Arkansas expansion. Market partner Ben Brainard, who leads operations in the state, emphasizes a model rooted in quality, flexibility, and responsiveness to local demand. In this Q&A, Brainard shares insights into guest experience, kitchen standards, and why Conway represents an important market for the brand’s continued growth.
WHAT’S THAT GONNA BE, PRESENTED BY FIRST COMMUNITY BANK
The Village at Hendrix Welcomes a New Restaurant Concept
Roost & Tap Kitchen is Headed to The Village
An elevated comfort-food concept is preparing to join one of Conway’s coveted mixed-use developments.
First Community Bank’s Things to Know about Roost & Tap Kitchen:
- 12 beers on tap
- 24-hour brined chicken
- Signature 14-space rotisserie rub
- Seating for more than 100 guests
TOP HOMES, PRESENTED BY FIRST SECURITY BANK
Local Housing Market Brief with First Security Bank
“Lower interest rates, stabilizing home prices, and steady inventory helped the Arkansas housing market have a strong 2025. Arkansas homebuyers should continue to see lower interest rates, modest price increases, and inventory remaining at stable levels in 2026. New home construction should stay on pace with 2025 totals.
Home prices, overall, are expected to increase in 2026, 3%-6%, on average. Central Arkansas home sales are forecast to be slightly better in 2026 than in 2025.”
–Mike Milner, Mortgage Director and Senior Vice President at First Security Bank
$1.2M Conway Home Leads the Pack in December
The top home sold in Faulkner County in December was a $1.2 million residence in Conway. The home on Janan Court sold for $178.57 per square foot. The 6,720-square-foot home boasts five bedrooms, four full bathrooms, and two half-baths, and is located on approximately 0.92 acres.
ECONOMY AT A GLANCE, PRESENTED BY ARVEST BANK
Local Economy Brief with Arvest Bank
As we examine the latest economic indicators for December 2025, it is clear that Conway is not just maintaining its status — it is thriving.
● A Leading Labor Market: While the national unemployment rate sits at 4.4%, Conway and Faulkner County continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience with a steady 3.8% unemployment rate. This confirms that our local workforce remains highly competitive and engaged.
● Momentum in Consumer Spending: Our local economy saw significant activity as we closed out the year. Total sales in Conway reached $2.298 billion, a 2.03% increase over 2024.
● A Thriving Hospitality Sector: Perhaps the most telling sign of our community’s vitality is the growth in restaurant sales, which jumped 4.75% to over $315 million for the year. While hotel receipts saw a marginal dip of 0.35%, the broader trend for Faulkner County — exceeding $3.1 billion in total sales — is overwhelmingly positive.
-Patrick Lewis, Community Bank President at Arvest Bank
Latest Data Shows Modest Movement Across Key Sectors
Recent data showed limited movement across key sectors to close out the year.
- Unemployment: Unchanged locally, continuing to track below the national rate
- Total sales: Up 2.03% year over year
- Restaurant spending: Rose 4.75%
- Hotel receipts: Dipped slightly, down 0.35%
THE LADDER
Employee News Around Conway
Businesses and organizations announced promotions, hires, and professional recognition to close out the year.
Among this month’s news, Conway Corp Chief Marketing Officer Crystal Kemp was named one of Cablefax’s 2025 Most Powerful Women and honored with the publication’s Mentor of the Year award.