Finding your style - The Creative Perspective with The Mens Shoppe

From the world of fashion, John Pammer, owner of The Mens Shoppe talks to us about the power of community, finding one's comfort in their style and the art of running a small business.

Tell us about your business journey - do you recall how you first discovered your interest and passion for your work?

I started working part-time in menswear when I was 16 years old in high school at Jack Frasers in The Brantford Mall. I also had stints working part-time at Tip Top Tailors while I was studying at university. I always enjoyed working retail and serving customer's needs. My personal interest in the power of clothing to make you look and feel good, not to mention, make a good first impression.

What services or products do you provide? What is your vision and what are your goals?

The Mens Shoppe provides quality clothing, shoes and accessories so you can look and feel your very best for all of life's occasions. We are a family-owned and operated business that truly cares you, our valued customers. We offer personalized service and real value in a friendly, comfortable setting, where you can develop your own sense of personal style.

Perhaps creating a successful business or community group is a bit of an art form.

What is the most challenging part of running your business - and what’s the most rewarding?

Product selection, inventory control, marketing, serving customers and generating positive word of mouth are challenging parts of building a good retail business.

The most rewarding part is building relationships in your community and becoming a trusted member of your community. The sense of independence is also good, but one also realizes it takes a lot of people to help one become successful. It really is a team effort!

The most rewarding part is building relationships in your community...

How do you hope people feel or what do you hope they take away when they visit your business?

I hope they feel heard, and well served. We strive to go the extra mile for our customers and we hope they feel that.

What role do you think small businesses or community groups, especially in the creative field, play in a community like ours?

Perhaps creating a successful business or community group is a bit of an art form. Its all about community building. Sort of like creating positive synergy between people, where everything's our efforts become a win/win scenario for everyone involved! The arts are wonderful, because art gives us insight into what it is to be truly human., I view the arts as essential to human progress. True art connects the soul with the Divine, uplifts society, inspires morality, and fosters the fundamental oneness of humanity.

What’s next for you - are there any upcoming projects, events, or milestones you’re excited to share?

Presently, I sit on the board for the Wright Family Performing Arts & Entertainment Centre Foundation and am thrilled to be working with this board to bring arts and support the artistic endeavours of artists in Strathroy-Caradoc and area. We are in the process of raising funds and campaigning to build an arts centre. I believe a performing arts centre will be a worthwhile addition to our already great community, something we can all be proud of.

Connect with John at The Mens Shoppe:

Website | Facebook

info@themensshoppe.ca

519-245-6370

30 Front Street W., Strathroy, Ontario