Chehalis Outfitters celebrates successful first two years of business, continued growth

By Emily Fitzgerald
For the Chamber of Commerce

Voted Best of Lewis County in two categories this year, Chehalis Outfitters is preparing to end 2023 on a high note and continue excelling into 2024.

The business opened when the owners of Shelton Outfitters purchased Sunbird Shopping Center in Chehalis in 2021.

“It’s been a real nice transition. We’ve kept a lot of the same Sunbird values, which is important,” said store manager Kelli Erb.

While Chehalis Outfitters carries some of the same products as nearby big box stores Walmart and Home Depot, Chehalis Outfitters sets itself apart by offering exceptional customer service, Erb said.

“We want to help you solve any problems you may have, or give you suggestions. Customer service is something that we’re really focusing on,” she said.

Chehalis Outfitters started selling firearms in September, much to the excitement of former Sunbirds customers.

The reason Chehalis Outfitters closed Sunbird’s gun selection in 2021 was because the federal firearms license didn’t transfer with the sale, requiring Chehalis Outfitters to apply for a new license, according to Erb. “It’s nice to have that back,” she said.

Chehehalis Outfitters currently carries a large variety of firearms in stock and can also handle special orders and transfers.

In addition to firearms, Chehalis Outfitters is the largest supplier of workwear brands Carhart and Georgia in the area, according to Erb.

“We’re a big workwear community, you know, and that is some of our bread and butter,” she said.

The store also sells a variety of power tools in addition to home and garden goods and a growing toy section.

Chehalis Outfitters is located at 1757 N. National Ave. in Chehalis and is open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

For more information on the store and upcoming events, including holiday visits from Santa, visit https://www.facebook.com/ chehalisoutfitters.