The Trading Post, known as the oldest continuously operating business in Fayette County, is emerging into a new era. Bill Davis began his business venture 64 years ago, in 1947, on Highway 54 west of Fayetteville in a location known for selling general merchandise – gas, clothing, groceries. Aided by location, a friendly environment and a growing population, The Trading Post quickly became known as a gathering place for the locals.
In the mid 60’s, the Trading Post moved to its current location on Georgia Highway 85 South. This became a popular location for customers from many surrounding counties to shop for their jeans, overalls, boots and work clothes. People from all over still remember the Trading Post as “the place my parents took me to buy my back to school clothes.” In the following decades the Trading Post thrived combining good old fashioned service and quality name brand clothing.
Davis passed away in March 2009, at 92 years old. His wife, Margaret continued to run the family business. The economy had finally taken its toll on the Trading Post and she saw no alternative but to close the popular family business in 2011. This was a very emotional and difficult time for this family as the Trading Post was a landmark in this county. It was family, a business that Davis loved.
Now the new era begins. The Trading Post did not close. Davis’ grandson, Mark Jones, was not willing to let this business that his grandfather loved so dearly close. He has taken over running the Trading Post bringing new ideas, new clothing lines and an updated look to the business. Jones has not forgotten the lines that made the Trading Post so well known and will continue the tradition. In addition to the Carhartt, Levi’s, Wrangler, Georgia Boot, and other lines for which they are so well known, Jones has added many new brands to ensure that The Trading Post is still the place to go for active and casual apparel. These lines will eventually include clothing for all lifestyles including casual work wear, sports and spirit wear, golf apparel, collegiate wear, and more womens and childrens clothing.
Keeping with the times, the Trading Post will be launching its online store this month (www.tradingpostlife.com) to serve customers across the country.
The same brands found at the Trading Post will be available online for convenience of customers at a reasonable price – something that Bill would be proud of.
The Trading Post will be celebrating the beginning of its new era with a Tent Sale on May 6, 7 and 8. Jones invites everyone to visit the newly renovated Trading Post and the outside Tent Sale.
On Saturday, May 7, there will be food, music and giveaways.
Jones knows his grandfather would be proud.
