**Decades-Old Local Business Saved, Plans to Add New Brands and Conventional Sizes

*PORTAGE, MI* — A beloved 21-year-old men's clothing store that faced imminent permanent closure has found new owners who promise to expand the business and bring it back to full strength. B.J. Benjims Big & Tall, located on Centre Avenue in Portage, will host a grand re-opening on April 18th under new leadership, with plans to add new brands and expand its offerings.

Jim Gersey and Steve Baum, the long-time owners of B.J. Benjims, announced their retirement in 2025 after building the store from the ground up. The men's clothing store, which has served the Portage community for over two decades, seemed headed for permanent closure in the challenging brick-and-mortar retail environment until new investors stepped forward with a plan to save the business.

New Owners Step In to Save Local Institution

Russell Drenth and his business partner John Thomas purchased the store earlier this year, expressing their commitment to keeping the local business alive and thriving.

"I just know that they have such a great following," said Russell Drenth, who along with John Thomas, purchased the business earlier this year. "I just thought it would be a tremendous loss to the community."

Drenth, who is also a current vendor to the store, joined forces with Thomas to acquire the business, recognizing its importance to the Portage community and its loyal customer base.

Grand Re-Opening Set for April 18

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held this week at the B.J. Benjims Big & Tall location on Centre Avenue in Portage, with the grand re-opening scheduled for April 18th. The event marks a significant turning point for the business and the community it has served for over 20 years.

Not only is the store being saved, but the new owners have ambitious plans for expansion. According to Drenth, the store will be adding quite a few new brands and expanding its suits and dress wear section.

"Everyone in the community has been incredibly welcoming and supportive," said Drenth. "We're going to be adding quite a few new brands and expanding suits and dress wear as well."

The new ownership team is also planning a significant expansion of their inventory, with plans to add conventional sizes to the Big & Tall offerings by the fall. This move will make the store more accessible to a broader customer base while still maintaining its focus on men's fashion.

A Business with Community Heart

B.J. Benjims has long been a fixture in Portage, providing quality men's clothing to residents of Calhoun County and beyond. The store's location on Centre Avenue has made it a neighborhood staple, and the new owners are committed to honoring the legacy that Gersey and Baum built over 21 years.

The acquisition comes at a critical time for local retail businesses across Southwest Michigan, where many mom-and-pop shops face increasing challenges from larger retailers and changing consumer habits. Drenth and Thomas are betting on the power of community support and the store's established reputation to drive the business forward.

"I just know that they have such a great following," Drenth emphasized, pointing to the loyal customer base that has supported the store for over two decades.

What's Next for B.J. Benjims

The grand re-opening on April 18th will showcase the new direction for the store, with fresh inventory and expanded offerings. Customers can expect to see new brands joining the roster, along with enhanced selections in suits and dress wear.

The addition of conventional sizes by fall will mark a significant expansion for the business, making it a one-stop shop for men's clothing across all sizes. This strategic move positions B.J. Benjims to compete more effectively in the evolving retail landscape while maintaining its local roots.

The Portage community has been described as "incredibly welcoming and supportive" by the new owners, suggesting that Drenth and Thomas have the local backing needed to make their expansion plans a reality.

Sources

  • WWMT-TV: Longtime Portage men's clothing store B J Benjims Big & Tall under new ownership — https://wwmt.com/news/local/longtime-portage-mens-clothing-store-saved-from-permanent-closure-by-new-owners