The Sweater Mill, located at 115 S. York Road has been part of Hatboro’s main street for over 42 years. Opened during the Christmas season of 1978 (in the now extremely popular “pop-up store” style), Yvette and Joe Kornfield turned a temporary, bargain table experiment into an iconic and thriving full-service men’s and women’s clothing and accessory business in the Borough.
The Sweater Mill is currently known across the region as a destination for shoppers seeking discounted pricing on knitwear and sportswear, and exceptional personalized customer service.
As Yvette like to say, “we have better things, at better prices.” And for those who have not been to their store, you may be surprised at what you will find inside. HINT: It’s not just sweaters. They have everything from basics (high quality t-shirts) to high fashion pieces. You’ll find men’s and women’s clothing that run the gamut from traditional/classic to current/designer fashions. They pride themselves on offering unique and special items, at all price points. In their words, “we like to carry things other stores don’t, and we offer them to our customers at savings of up to 50%.”
And while they do carry sweaters, they also carry much, much more. Offerings include pants, jackets, shirts and vests, as well as a tremendous assortment of accessories like fun and fashionable trouser socks, scarves, belts and hats for both men and women.
When asked about their key to having a successful retail clothing business for over four decades, the Kornfield’s first point to their commitment to their customers and understanding what they want. In their store they wait on their customers and help them find items that are right for their style and their body types. And, as part of their personalized service, they maintain the now famous “blue binder” that contains categories of clothing and customers’ preferences (and contact information) so that when shipments arrive in the store their staff can call customers to let them know what has come in.
Being able to remain in the retail clothing business for 42 years as a destination store is no small feat. Yvette and Joe credit their location in Hatboro for being accessible, economical and geographically desirable for them and their customers.
Be sure to stop in to the Sweater Mill during this holiday season for unique gifts and/or for outfits and accessories for your holiday parties and gatherings. (They are open Monday – Saturday 10am- 5:00pm.)
And, if you are a dog fan, be sure to ask if Wes, their award-winning Great Dane, is in the store! Typically a staple in the back office, Wes is sweet and gentle and loves to meet customers! And while you’re at it, ask the Kornfield’s about their 45 years of owning and showing Great Danes…it’s an example of a fun Hatboro merchant fact!
