Bealls showcases new look at Creekwood store

EAST MANATEE -- Bealls Department Stores celebrated the grand opening of its newly remodeled store in Creekwood Crossing at 7365 52nd Place East on Friday.

"We are awfully proud of this store. It's a flagship for us," said Matt Swartwood, vice president of stores for the Bradenton-based chain.

The 67,000-square-foot department store was the company's third in the Bradenton area when it originally opened in 2001.

"We have made a ton of improvements and put our best foot forward with the best brands and our best people," Swartwood said.

Among those brands are Bealls' own Reel Legends, as well as Quicksilver, Hurley, IZOD, Haggar, Roxy, and a new brand, the popular Under Armour.

"We have had a great response from our customers," Swartwood said. "The results are very energizing."

Gayle Holeman, store manager, said the store has been transformed, and it's all designed to provide customers with the choices they want.

"We have enjoyed being part of the Bradenton community since 1915, and we are very excited to celebrate a brand-new experience with the community," Lorna Nagler, president of Bealls Department Stores, said in a press release.

"We have completely updated the store, along with new brand shops to bring the Bradenton community a more inspiring and comfortable shopping experience," Nagler said.

Bealls, which is celebrating its 100th year, operates more than 520 stores in 16 states.

James A. Jones Jr., East Manatee reporter, can be contacted at 941-745-7053 or on Twitter@jajones1.

This story was originally published May 30, 2015 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Bealls showcases new look at Creekwood store."