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| - Kmart reincarnated into the 4th store of the local Great Lakes Outdoor Supply chain in 2014 - the "Cabela's" of Geauga County, Ohio. This place is for fishing, hunting, natural outdoor recreational, and firearms enthusiast looking for new equipment, accessories, or advice.
Wonderfully helpful and friendly staff, I talked to at least five employees during my first visit. I was greeted at the door and then was able to easily find someone to ask questions of, whether it be in the kayaks, apparel, or firearms section.
Speaking of which they certainly have a handsome collection of firearms-related merchandise from gun safes, reloading supplies, and ammunition. Of course the back wall (and what a huge back wall it is) is lined with rifles and shotguns with equally as substantial pistol display cases (yes, plural). There's an archery section too, although this store doesn't feature an indoor archery range like the Middlefield store's.
The clothing section is a bit light with limited choices But I attribute that to a number of factors including that the store is brand new, Fall stocking season for clothes is less than a month or so away, and the audience geared to by this chain is typically more functional than fashion-oriented. At least just about everything on the racks was on sale at 40% off in August.
I see the main difference with GLOS and a place like Dick's is who they cater to. GLOS seems to focus on those who want to be in the natural outdoors (woods, lakes, etc.) whereas other chains seem to focus on school athletics and workout gyms. Think of it this way - if you want hot yoga pants, go somewhere else. If you want a meat grinder and extra sausage casings for your fresh venison, black powder to reload your shells, or in the mood for a kayak or two, this is the place to shop!
I'm more than happy to support our hometown businesses such as this locally-owned chain (Spidalieri family) and I'll definitely be back.
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