Jim Donovan, founder of Kenmore Camera, is preparing to move his business across the street in downtown Kenmore in response to customer demand.The new and bigger location is in Kenmore Village.

A company spokesperson said that customers are turning to the specialty camera retailer for more than products; they are seeking hands-on classes, unique products and lab service.

Donovan purchased the retail space from the City of Kenmore in Kenmore Village as a part of the downtown’s redevelopment of its commercial area across the street from city hall.

“An expanded service mix requires more space,” Donovan said.

The new location is 17,000-square feet, more than tripling the space from the 4,600-square feet at the previous location. Kenmore Camera will open the new space this fall.

Building renovations are underway including a major exterior facelift. The finished space includes two classrooms, customer lounge, expansive retail space and custom lighting displays. The contractor, Dewalt Commercial LLC, expects the remodel to be complete by the end of August. OAC Services, Inc. is providing construction and project management and the architecture firm is ORB Architects.

Despite the shrinking specialty camera market that has forced many competitors to close their doors, the multi-generational, family business is growing due to constant improvements. It features lab services and classes that accommodate all experience levels, attracting customers from as far north as Bellingham and as far south as Tacoma.

As a King County Executive’s Small Business Awards finalist, Donovan attributes the part of the company’s success to the niche Digital Photo Expo that Kenmore Camera hosts annually at the Lynnwood Convention Center. The Expo offers product demonstrations and 32 classes covering a wide variety of photo related subjects.

The recently negotiated purchase made it possible for the company to stay in Kenmore, a city that the Donovan family calls home. Donovan and his wife, Martha, live just up the hill from the business.

“Kenmore is where we belong. The city leadership wants us here, and our customers know where we are located,” Donovan said.

The Donovan’s three children are members of the company leadership team. Bob Donovan, the eldest son, handles management and operations; Scott Donovan, manages the technical responsibilities; and, Mary Panichi, the youngest sibling, manages the administrative work. The Donovan’s grandson, and Scott’s son, Michael Donovan, operates the photo lab.

“Retaining Kenmore Camera as a local business was a priority for us at the city,” said City of Kenmore’s City Manager, Rob Karlinsey. “We support our homegrown businesses and worked hard to make sure Jim and his team had what they need.”