Wei’s Western Wear keeps customers happy
06/18/08
BY MARK WEBER
Red Deer Express
It’s been more than 50 years since Wei’s Western Wear first set up shop in downtown Red Deer.
Ever since, the store’s commitment to quality customer service has vaulted them to the top of the pack ever since.
They’ve consistently been named Favourite Western Wear outlet in the city over the years in the Best of Red Deer.
This year, they took the gold once again.
It was back in 1956 that Wei Mah first opened the business in Red Deer.
“It was like a small shoe repair shop,” recalls Wei’s son Steve, who currently co-owns the business with other family members.
Looking back, it wasn’t long before Wei opted to expand what the business was all about.
In about 1960, the business settled in its current downtown location (5115 – 50 Ave.) and branched into extensive lines of western wear.
Another location has since opened on the city’s north end at 6715 - Gaetz Ave.
For Steve, the secret of success stems from keeping generations of customers happy with what the store offers.
“It’s about the quality of the goods we carry and the service we put behind it,” he explains.
“When a person comes in here, they are rarely disappointed – they find what they need because we have lots to offer them.”
There are loads of cowboy boot styles to peruse, plus blue jeans, cowboy hats, belts, western shirts and the accessories that go with it all.
“We’ve got it all covered.”
Wei’s Western Wear has also broadened what they offer over the years as well to keep pace with Central Alberta’s brisk economy.
Workwear including steel-toed boots and coveralls are also carried these days, particularly at the north location.
Meanwhile, Wei’s solid reputation is seeing the business gain ground not only in western Canada and the U.S. but overseas as well.
“We’ve got people emailing us all the way from Europe because they can’t find what they’re looking for,” says Steve.
“We have quite a following.”
Steve and his staff stay on top of the latest fashions in western wear by attending industry events both in Canada and the U.S. as well.
Events in Calgary, Denver and Dallas offer plenty of ideas about the hottest trends, and staff at Wei’s are eager to bring them to their customer base. For Steve, keeping the family business moving ahead in an always shifting marketplace is a joy.
Making sure customers leave the store pleased with the service they’ve received brings even more satisfaction to his busy schedule.
“I really enjoy coming in here to see the people.”
mweber@reddeer.greatwest.ca 309-5459
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