Bedford Jewelers, a long-standing jewelry store in the Great Road Shopping Center, has reopened under a new name and leadership, ensuring the continuation of a family business established in 1954.
The store, now called Cormier Fine Jewelry, is managed by Kyle Cormier, the great-grandson of the original founders, Althea and Arthur Bishop.
The reopening marks a significant transition for the business, which was initially scheduled to close following the retirement of Shirley O’Connor, Cormier’s grandmother, who had been running the store for decades.
From Closure to Revival
The decision to reopen followed a strong community response during the store’s going-out-of-business sale in mid-October. Cormier, 26, explained that logistical challenges initially made continuing the business seem unfeasible. However, local patrons expressed disappointment over the closure, inspiring him to reconsider.
“We were absolutely floored by the turnout,” Cormier said. “The community was bummed that we were going.”
After deliberation, Cormier and his family determined they had enough resources to move forward. They spent November remodeling the store, reconnecting with suppliers, and renewing the lease to prepare for a relaunch.
“We had two weeks to decide. I determined we had enough resources to open up again,” Cormier said.
The store reopened on Black Friday, a strategic move that allowed it to capitalize on the holiday shopping season.
Modernizing While Upholding Tradition
The store underwent updates to its interior, though Cormier noted that its focus on value, service, and quality remains the same. Legal constraints required a name change, prompting Cormier to rebrand the business under his own name.
“The value, service, and quality have not changed,” Cormier stated.
While O’Connor has officially retired, she remains involved in the store’s daily activities. “I couldn’t keep her away even if I wanted to,” Cormier joked, noting that she frequently visits the shop with her dog, Willow.
