New Bedford’s Guys & Gals Sportswear Celebrates 40 Years

For four decades, Joe and Zelia Rego have been a part of the heartbeat of New Bedford.

Their store Guys & Gals Sportswear has been providing sportswear, shoes and boutique items to the community since the Regos opened their doors on May 15, 1985.

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Humble Beginnings

"It started off super small and they've been there for 40 years. It's insane," the couple's daughter Megan Rego said. "Throughout the years they've expanded the business. They never moved, they've always been there."

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Joe and Zelia both immigrated from the Azores when they were young, Joe at the age of 15 and Zelia at the age of six. Their paths crossed when working at a factory here in the states.

"They got married and they opened a clothing store," Megan said. "They were 25 and 26 years old."

Reaching a Milestone

Now, 40 years later, their Acushnet Avenue shop is still thriving.

"It's a huge accomplishment," Megan said.

So why clothing of all things? Megan said it was a common interest.

"My dad was so into soccer, but they both loved fashion," she said. "He felt like it would work, and it did."

With both parents at Guys & Gals every day (and still up until today), Megan grew up at the store.

"I remember we had this old-school TV in the back room and I would go there after school and watch my shows," she said.

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When she was old enough, Megan worked at the store "for 15 years, at least," she said. Her heart, like those of her parents, is tied to the shop.

It's quite a feat for any business to last 40 years, but with the Regos' solid work ethic, passion for fashion and the support of their community, they made it possible.

From the Azores to The Ave, Joe and Zelia made their American dream a reality.