Fort Nelson store of more than four decades to close forever

FORT NELSON, B.C. — Ryan Carter can remember the early days of working at the storefront of Style Rite in Fort Nelson.

Carter spoke to Energeticcity.ca after the store’s Facebook page announced on January 5th, that after 46 years, it would close on March 31st. 

“I have two siblings and many cousins,” Carter told Energeticcity.ca.  “I think all of us have at some point worked in that business.

“My first job was shovelling the sidewalk around that building. I have many memories growing up, as that business is a big piece of our family.”

Carter’s grandfather bought the store initially. His father, Russell, then gained ownership of Style Rite with Ryan’s aunt in 1979.

Located on 5012 50th Avenue in Fort Nelson, Style Rite has been known as the “workhorse warehouse” since then.

Over the years, it sold everything from “magazines to cigarettes,” said Ryan, before focusing mainly on workwear.

Ryan told Energeticcity.ca with his dad now 77, retirement is the largest reason why it’s time for his family to walk away.

“For anyone of a new generation coming up, retail clothing stores are a very hard business now,” said Ryan. “With Amazon and ordering online, it is a big challenge.”

He also cites the local economy “suffering” as another reason for the closure.

The announcement received several reactions from users online, local Fort Nelson residents who have developed a connection with the store over its history.

“Thank you for the many wonderful years of service and best wishes in retirement,” said one Facebook user.

Another added they “enjoyed shopping” at the store and “the staff were so friendly.”

Before closing for good, the store did state special sales would be offered prior to the end of March, to “say thank you to the people who have supported us for so many years.”

For Ryan, he said the memories of Style Rite would last and he knows his father had a lasting impact on Fort Nelson residents.

“It’s right in the middle of town on the main street,” said Ryan. “My dad, more than anyone, was really proud to be involved in the community.

“Whether it was Canada Day [parade] floats or just people coming in. He was a friendly face everybody knew. I think that’s probably the hardest part for me. He put in the most time and worked hard. So it shows what a big part of the community he was.”

More details about Style Rite are available on the store’s Facebook page and website.