A new chapter in a decades-long family legacy began on April 16 as Karako Suits celebrated the grand opening of its newest location on Rockaway Turnpike in Lawrence.
The store, located at 350 Rockaway Turnpike, marks the latest expansion for the menswear retailer, which has grown from a single storefront in Manhattan to a multi-location business across the tri-state area.
At the helm are cousins Moshe Karako and Michael Karako, third-generation owners continuing a business first started by their grandfather and fathers in 1982. The company began in Manhattan’s Garment District and has remained family-owned and operated for more than four decades.
What began as a small operation has evolved into a regional brand, but the Karako family says its core values have remained the same.
“We have 12 stores on the island now,” Michael said. “The Five Towns store just moved from a few buildings over and it was one of the first stores on the island. We’ve been on the island for 30 years.”
The store moved buildings for better visibility, parking and a bigger location.
“We have big shoes to fill, both of us,” Moshe said. “Our fathers worked very hard to build this business and we’re trying to push it forward.”
The new location reflects that continued growth while staying rooted in the community the family has long served. Known for offering a wide range of suits, from everyday wear to formal and custom designs, Karako Suits has built its reputation on accessibility and personalized service.
“It’s a family company at the end of the day,” Moshe said. “Our name goes in front of us and behind us and we want to make sure when people come to our stores we continue and serve the best quality products that we can, the best pricing that is unmatched in our industry and the service.”
From working in the stores as teenagers to now leading expansion efforts, both cousins say they were raised in the industry and learned firsthand the importance of customer service, quality and adaptability.
“The service is why we’re still here today with everything going on with online sales,” Michael added. “We’re able to service our customers and we have tailors on site in every store.”
They stressed the importance of having a suit for every price point, boys, men and even women. Along with Lawrence being the only location to sell Borsalino hats for the Jewish community.
“My favorite part is continuing the legacy, continuing the stores and making sure it’s a household name people can rely on,” Michael said. “You’re getting the same service at all 12 stores, same pricing and good Karako family experience.”
The Karako family says the goal remains simple: to carry forward the legacy started by their grandfather and fathers and strengthened by the generations that followed.
Moshe said his favorite part is creating and designing new and exciting styles and designs.
“Building out beautiful stores with my cousin is my favorite part,” Moshe said. “We do everything together.”
Karako Suits are members of the Hewlett-Woodmere Business Association and graduates of the Hewlett-Woodmere school district.
“We welcome Karako Suits to their new store,” said David Friedman, HWBA president. “The store is beautifully laid out and impressive. It was so nice meeting the family in person and it’s so great to have a local business owned by our friends from Hewlett.”
