Cabela’s, the world’s largest retailer of hunting, fishing, camping and other outdoor merchandise, has announced plans to open its fifth Canadian store — and first in B.C. — in Nanaimo.
The Sidney, Neb.-based giant plans to open in the fall of 2014 in the former Canadian Tire building at 6900 Island Highway in the Dickinson Crossing Shopping Centre.
The company said in a statement Thursday the store is expected to employ 150 full-time, part-time and seasonal employees. Most will come from Nanaimo and the surrounding area.
Construction in the 50,000-square-foot store is expected to begin next year.
“As Cabela’s Canada continues to expand, we knew British Columbia, and especially the Nanaimo area, would be a great fit for a Cabela’s retail location,” said Tommy Millner, Cabela’s chief executive officer. “The region is full of people who live the outdoor lifestyle and have supported Cabela’s through our catalogue and online for many years.”
Cabela's Incorporated, the World's Foremost Outfitter® of hunting, fishing and outdoor gear, established Cabela’s Canada in 2007 with a retail store and headquarters for Canadian operations in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
In 2010 the company moved to a 300,000-square-foot corporate headquarters and distribution centre in Winnipeg. In May of this year, the Winnipeg retail store relocated and the previous location was closed in conjunction with the new store opening.
Cabela’s stores showcase thousands of products, including hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, boating and wildlife-watching gear, as well as clothing and outdoor-themed gifts and furnishings.
Cabela’s also announced plans Thursday to open stores in Garner, N.C. and Sun Prairie, Wis.
It currently operates 48 stores across North America, including four in Canada – in Saskatoon, Regina, Edmonton and Winnipeg. The company has announced plans to open an additional 19 locations over the next two years, including a second Edmonton location in spring 2014 and a Barrie, Ont., store in fall 2014.
Founded in 1961, Cabela’s has grown to become one of the most well-known outdoor recreation brands in the world.
