A&M Clothing & Shoes is one of Westlock’s longest standing, family-owned businesses, in operation for over 70 years! It is with great honor and appreciation that we celebrate the store’s rebranding and rejuvenation as the next generation prepares to carry on the legacy.
A&M Clothing & Shoes offers a convenient and satisfactory shopping experience with a large selection of quality clothing and footwear, alongside the continued dedication to customer service. Formerly known as Arth’s Fashion Centre, A&M Clothing & Shoes has an extensive history in Westlock as an independently owned family business that has been a staple in the downtown core since 1952.
Business partners Frank Arth and Henry Michaud joined forces and in August 1952, they officially opened the doors to A&M Store. In 1968, Henry made the decision to part ways with the business leaving the Arth family to fully own and operate the store themselves. At that point Frank’s son, Richard Arth, joined the business and 10 years later, in 1978, he took over the family operation alongside his son, Brad Arth. Within that time and their quickly growing success, the Arth family decided to expand and open up three more store locations in Edson, Swan Hills and Thorhild; which have since closed their doors. In the following years, Todd Arth joined the company in 1983 and in 1985, after many changes, the family made the decision to rename A&M Store to Arth’s Fashion Centre. Todd and Brad then carried on the legacy by taking over ownership in 1989. And in 1993, Todd and his wife Bonnie took over the store. Fast forward to today, Todd remains the longest standing owner within the enterprise that his grandfather built. As Todd prepares to pass the family business on to the next generation, he continues to mentor and guide his son, Colton Arth, Store Manager, who has been with the company since 2012. In 2023, Colton made the decision to rebrand, downsize retail space and pay tribute to the founding members by changing the name to A&M Clothing & Shoes (Arth’s and Members).
Throughout the years it has been quite evident the importance that has been placed on customer service and the integrity that continues to get passed down through each generation. The top priority for their company is to ensure that they are providing exceptional customer service for each person that walks through their doors. As Colton stated, “there is nothing better than helping someone find products that they absolutely love.” They have great pride in the wide selection of quality goods that that they can provide for the entire family without having to leave the community to look elsewhere.
In comparison to a shopping trip at a big box store, A&M Clothing & Shoes has the advantage of providing a more personalized experience for each customer. You are sure to leave the store with a feeling of satisfaction that you were well taken care of and treated with the upmost respect. The experience of shopping in a family-owned business is a fading luxury within the consumer industry. Between big box stores and the convenience of online shopping, the service you will receive at A&M Clothing & Shoes is becoming quite unique in this day and age. With the ever-changing evolvement of the retail industry throughout the years, the business has had to adapt and make adjustments while preserving the character and the customer experience that the store is known for. One advantage that A&M Clothing & Shoes has is their team of employees. With a smaller group, they can better focus on product knowledge to ensure their customers are receiving the right items to suite their needs.
When asked about indications of success within the business, Colton was quick to answer with the rewards that come with excellent customer service. Not only does a customer leave with products that they love, they leave with a lasting impression of their experience, feeling pleased with the level of service they have received. Another major factor in success is the company’s workplace culture. Ensuring that their employees feel safe, comfortable and happy to be part of the team is a significant key to the success the business has had over the years. They carry much pride in operating an organization with very little staff turnover. “We know we are not perfect, but we strive everyday to achieve these little things, and if we do, the rest of our success with follow.”
Please join us in honoring the Arth family and A&M Clothing & Shoes for their consistent dedication to our business community and the devoted service provided to each customer that has walked through their doors over the last 73 years! Be sure to show your support by visiting the store this December during their annual Christmas sale. You will surely find something for each person on your Christmas list with this one-stop-shop experience.
