A new clothing store, Faherty, has recently opened in Healdsburg, sparking conversations about the importance of keeping shopping local in downtown areas. The store, which embodies a laid-back coastal lifestyle, quietly opened earlier this month and has received a mix of reactions from the community.
Owned by twin brothers Alex and Mike Faherty, along with Alex’s wife Kerry Docherty, the store is the fifth Faherty location in the Bay Area and the first in Sonoma County. The store’s manager, Rommel Piring, noted that the opening day drew curious visitors interested in what the store had to offer.
However, the store’s arrival has also led to discussions about expanding Healdsburg’s ordinance on formula businesses, with some residents expressing concerns about the impact on the character of the downtown area. The existing ordinance prohibits formula businesses around the historic plaza to maintain the presence of small, unique businesses attractive to residents and visitors.
Despite some local shop owners feeling that Faherty may detract from their businesses, Piring emphasized that the brand can serve as an anchor store, attracting foot traffic that could benefit surrounding stores. Moving forward, Faherty aims to engage with the community and become an integral part of the Healdsburg area.
Overall, the opening of Faherty in Healdsburg has sparked a dialogue about the balance between welcoming reputable brands and preserving the unique character of local downtown areas. Feedback on the store has been mixed, but the management is optimistic about the role Faherty can play in the community.
Source
Photo credit www.pressdemocrat.com
