After 40 years of business in downtown Kenmore, Kenmore Camera will celebrate the opening of their new, much larger location with a three-day grand opening.
The event from Feb. 21 to 23, will feature guest speaker Corky Trewin, the official team photographer for the Seahawks and Sounders FC. There will be special deals on gear and manufacturer representatives will be showing off new equipment and answering questions. Trewin will speak on Feb. 22 at 3 p.m. and customers can enjoy over 20 free photography classes with guest speakers all weekend long.
In response to customer demand, the specialty camera store’s new space is triple the size of their previous location, with more than 17,000 square feet. As the largest camera store on the West Coast north of Los Angeles, the multi-generational, family business is growing due to constant innovation.
“Our success is attributed to the people who work here,” said Jim Donovan, owner of Kenmore Camera. “There is always more to learn and our staff enjoys sharing their knowledge with people who love photography.”
Located at 6708 NE 181st Street in Kenmore Village, a redeveloping commercial area in downtown Kenmore, the new building features a photo lab and two spacious classrooms for workshops and seminars seating 200 people. As the main retail anchor for Kenmore Village, the store attracts customers from Bellingham to Tacoma.
“We draw quite a few people to the area because there are not many specialty camera stores anymore,” Donovan said. “We’re excited to be expanding in Kenmore because of the people and supportive city government.”
Jim and Martha Donovan started the business in 1974 and the Donovan’s three children are members of the company leadership team. Bob Donovan, handles management and operations; Scott Donovan, manages the technical responsibilities; and, Mary Panichi, manages the administrative work. The Donovan’s grandsons, Michael and Tyler, handle customer’s retail needs.
“Kenmore is pleased to see homegrown businesses like Kenmore Camera expanding in the City,” said Mayor of Kenmore, David Baker. “Business is really taking off in the City of Kenmore.”
