The retail face of downtown Vernon is evolving. Bargain Shop could close as early as Sept. 9, with Liquidation World moving into the 30th Avenue building by late October or early November. “Vernon is a natural for our company,” said Jeff Girvin, Liquidation World’s district manager. Vernon is one of nine new stores that will open across Canada by December. It currently has 102 outlets in North America. “With locations in Kelowna, Kamloops and Penticton, Vernon was the next area we wanted to open a store,” said Girvin.
The building recently sold, and Liquidation World snapped up the lease when it became available. “Location is something we’re always looking for,” said Girvin. The building housed Woolworth’s for many years, but converted to Bargain Shop in 1994. “It wasn’t really a shock because it (closure) has been in the rumour mill for awhile,” said Roy Maxson, longtime Bargain Shop store manager. “But when it happens, it’s disappointing.” The closure will impact 10 employees. “I was sad but I’m looking forward to the new opportunities,” said Linda James, who has been with Woolworth’s/Bargain Shop for 15 years. Maxson says Bargain Shop proved popular with downtown residents, especially those on fixed incomes or those without vehicles to travel to other parts of town. “We were a source of many things for them.” Liquidation World will specialize in food, clothing, furniture and household items such as paint. Liquidation World will employ between 20 and 30 people in Vernon.
No comments:
Post a Comment