Swimwear shopping isn’t always easy, especially in Canada, where seasonal offerings are limited and trying on bathing suits can feel daunting. But Swimco, now open in Langley’s Willowbrook Shopping Centre, is on a mission to change that.
“Helping people feel confident and comfortable in swimwear is at the heart of everything we do,” says Leah Veltmeyer, marketing manager at Swimco. “It’s not just about the product, it’s about how you feel in it.”
That philosophy has guided the Canadian swimwear brand for 50 years. Founded in Calgary in 1975 by Corinne Forseth, Swimco grew from a basement mail-order service for swim teams into 25 retail stores across the country. But like many businesses, Swimco was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. After closing all its locations in March 2020, the company restructured and emerged as an online-only boutique by year’s end.
Today, 10 staff members continue to run the company’s head office and warehouse, several with decades of experience. With four retail stores now open again, including the new Langley location, Swimco is building back with renewed energy and focus. “We like to call ourselves a 50-year-old startup,” Veltmeyer says with a smile. “We have the knowledge of a well-known brand and we know how to run a big business, we’re just small..”
To mark its 50th anniversary, Swimco is hosting its largest giveaway yet: a $1,000 travel package! Customers can enter online at swimco.com/contests.
With swimwear for the entire family, Swimco carries brands like Seafolly, Rip Curl and Miraclesuit, with a commitment to inclusive sizing and body positivity. What sets Swimco apart is its team of trained Fit Experts who guide each customer through fitting processes.
“Our Fit Experts go through extensive training to help every customer find the right style, and fit.,” Veltmeyer says. “Our goal is for everyone to walk out feeling good half naked.”
Langley shoppers preparing for vacation will also find more than swimsuits. Swimco staff ask about travel plans, if customers are heading to a surf retreat, a cruise or a family beach trip and tailor their recommendations accordingly. The store also carries performance gear, sun protection and beachwear.
“We’re constantly listening to customer feedback, reviewing trends and evolving with what people need,” Veltmeyer says. “Our community is the reason we’re still here, and we’re grateful for their trust.”
“Whether it’s your first swimsuit in years or your tenth, we’re here to help you feel amazing in it,” says Veltmeyer. For more information, visit swimco.com.