Someone You Should Know: Barry Hansen

BISMARCK, N.D. (KXNET)— Since 1981, Barry Hansen’s not only answered the phone, he’s owned and operated Hansen’s Mens Wear in Bismarck. He said his passion for the clothing business goes back years. “I can remember going to a market with my parents as I was in junior high. It was the first time I was exposed to it,” Hansen’s Mens Wear owner Barry Hansen said.

After studying business in college, Hansen went straight to work at the business opened by his parents in 1977, which he would purchase from them. Hansen said a lot of his success is found in what’s often lost on unsuccessful salespeople. “You can give a lot of information to people that they don’t really need. What they need is direction,” Hansen said. “Some of it’s color. A guy like myself, with white hair, needs darker clothing, you know, on the top, in order to not look washed out,” Hansen added.

What customers also appreciate is year round product availability: from winter gear in the summer to short-sleeve colorful shirts in the winter. “They just love being able to come and find a selection, rather than one or two items here and there. So, that’s fulfilling to be able to meet that need,” Hansen said.

Both colorful and conservative can be found at Hansen’s, as can items showing Hansen’s biggest loves. “Five children, 15 grandchildren. My wife and I love to fish. So, we do that on weekends every chance we get. Grandchildren are my favorite thing of life (Hansen’s grandson calls for him, saying: ‘Grandpa!) You can hear one back there right now,” Hansen said laughing.

Though there’ve been challenging times, Hansen said he’s relied on his loyal customers to help keep him successful, in addition to his outlook on life. I can make the best out of any situation, you know. Look for the good,” Hansen said.

Hansen said he has at least six more years of being open due to building agreements. After that, he said it’s yet to be determined.

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