In a significant move that has sparked interest in the local retail landscape, the Ferrell’s clothing store has officially opened its doors at a new location in Idaho Falls for the third time since its establishment. This marks an exciting chapter in the business's history.
Located conveniently near the Grand Teton Mall, Ferrell’s began operations in its latest building on Monday, specifically in Centennial Square at 2261 East 17th Street, which was previously occupied by Seagull Book.
Dana Wright, who co-owns the store with his wife Teneal, shared with EastIdahoNews.com the motivations behind this relocation. "We're in search of a slightly larger space," Dana explained, noting that the new facility offers a more spacious sales area while reducing the size of the backroom compared to their previous site.
The Wrights transitioned from a 5,500-square-foot venue at 3194 South 25th East to their new space, which spans 5,400 square feet. Dana pointed out that the back area of their former building was larger than the sales floor itself, which was less than ideal for their operations.
Accessibility also played a crucial role in their decision to move. Dana mentioned that he lost customers at the previous location because some found it inconvenient to navigate the U-turn and single entrance in that area. "This new site boasts improved traffic flow with a stoplight and multiple access points," he elaborated. "It's simply easier for customers to get in and out."
Continuing a tradition of service, Kristi Eldridge, the store's in-house tailor who manages her own alterations business called In Stitches Alterations, is also operating at the new location. "She moved over here with us," Dana added, highlighting how they created a separate room for her within the store.
Ferrell’s has long been a go-to destination for young men preparing for missions with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Although the store is renowned for its selection of men's dress suits, Dana hinted at future plans to introduce suit rentals—a request he often receives from customers looking for more options.
The Wrights took over the business in 2018 from Teneal’s father, Brent Tueller, who had purchased Ferrell’s from its original founder, Dave Anderson, in the 1980s. Ferrell’s first opened its doors in 1950 at what was then a JCPenney's location. Prior to that, the store was situated a few blocks east of its current home, where Destinations Inn now stands.
Following the Wrights’ acquisition of the 25th East building in 2019, local contractor Jayce Powell bought the former Broadway location and renovated it. After sitting empty for several years, this site has recently changed hands again, now owned by Justin and Valerie Miller under the name Rare Earth Enterprises LLC. Valerie mentioned that their plans for the building are still in the early stages, with more information expected soon.
For now, Dana expresses excitement about the potential of the new store and the opportunity to better serve their clientele. "We’re located next to Work Wear House, which specializes in work attire for men, while we focus on dress clothes. On the other side is Bob’s Indoor Golf, creating a great community vibe for guys," he said, pleased to be neighboring other male-targeted businesses.
The Wrights collaborated with Randy Waters at SVN High Desert Commercial to secure their new space and are planning a grand re-opening celebration in April. Ferrell’s Clothing will continue to operate from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, ensuring that their loyal customers can easily find them.
In other local business news, Clean Juice at 3337 Valencia Drive in Idaho Falls is offering complimentary berry acai bowls on Monday, following the Super Bowl—a day known for low energy and productivity. The berry acai bowl features a nutrient-rich mix that includes acai, banana, strawberries, blueberries, honey, and almond milk, topped with granola, sliced banana, goji berries, and seasonal fruits. This giveaway coincides with the launch of five new bowl varieties.
In case you missed it, Kingpot Korean BBQ & Hot Pot is closing to make way for a new restaurant, while a Mexican food truck in Rexburg is transforming into a permanent storefront. Additionally, Idaho Falls Pediatrics has opened its first location in Rexburg, and Senator Jim Risch has honored a local garden seed supplier as Idaho's Small Business of the Month.
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