By Andru McCracken

When asked whether it was wise to open a retail outlet store in a community whose major employer is presently shut down, Greg Crowder, general manager of Fields Department Stores, said that tough financial times in the community could actually help their store’s success.

“We look for markets that mirror where we have been successful. Valemount has a 1200 population and a trading population that probably brings in more than 2000 people. It is a non-competitive market, meaning that there isn’t any of our type of retailer in that community,” said Crowder.

“We look to bring value and assortment to communities that it is not available.”

He said that Fields Stores are very profitable for their owner Hbc.

Tail light syndrome

Crowder suggested that the store could help stop ‘tail light syndrome,’ when residents travel outside of their community to do their shopping.

“We are not going to stop destination shopping especially in key seasonal windows, but they don’t want to have to make that trip when they need a few items. A big part of our success is the convenience factor.”

Dollar format

Crowder said that all prices in the chain end in zero. To top it off, there are only 18 prices in the entire store.

He said that the company is opening 40 stores across Canada this year.

Employment

The company will create in total 7 to 10 jobs. He said that the jobs are not minimum wage.

“It is a fair wage and it is reviewed on an annual basis to make sure that it is competitive,” he said.

He said that they also extend a benefits package to employees.

7 days a week

The new department store will be open 7 days a week.

“Sometimes tougher markets create more value to us than a strong market. Not everybody has the same affluence when the mill is closed. There is a bigger need when times are tough and we are convenient as heck when times are good,” he said.

He said that the building is scheduled to be turned over to them on September 1.

“From the day that we receive the keys to the day we open the doors, it is usually only about a two week turn around,” said Crowder.

“We’re looking forward to getting into Valemount.”

Sporting and clothing

Janet Kunka of Sporting and Clothing on 5th Avenue said she believes she will see somewhat of an impact when the store opens. “Because it’s a cheaper line, I feel I’m okay in that area,” she said. “I don’t think that we have enough happening around here yet to keep everybody going either.”

Kunka said that she is already affected due to the mill closure and the lack of jobs.

“Down the road is probably another story, but right now it is probably going to hurt everybody,” she said. “It will be a challenge.”