After delays Menards is ready to enter Gaylord market
GAYLORD — In the culmination of a process that began several years ago, the new Menards store will finally open in Gaylord on Tuesday, March 19.
In 2016, a site plan from Menards was approved and construction was originally projected to begin in the spring of 2017. However, the work never started. In 2020, the Gaylord City Council approved a zoning permit application from Menards but work didn't start until last summer.
"The first thing you will see when you enter the store (at 2300 Snowdrift Dr.) are the beautiful lights and I'm sure everyone has been taking a look at that when they drive by. We have a great light selection and we are set for spring with lawn mowers and patio furniture, so we are in line with what nature has given us," said store manager Skot Danielson, who has moved to the area from St. Cloud, Minnesota.
When asked how many jobs the store will create, a company spokesman said "that number is unavailable."
Despite reports of worker shortages in Northern Michigan, Danielson said the store will be fully staffed.
"We had so many wonderful people that have come in and expressed an interest in working here. Hopefully we will be able to bring in a few more as we get into spring," he said.
Menards will be entering a market that already has a Home Depot, Lowe's, Builders FirstSource and hardware stores. Danielson said the store's wide selection of products and services — you can purchase everything from a house to cleaning supplies — will appeal to customers.
"The wonderful thing about Menards is that while you are getting your carpet cut, you can run over and grab some milk and cereal. You will walk through the store and see something you need," he said. "Service is where we thrive. We can help you figure out exactly what you need to get your project completed."
Danielson said contractors will find a full-line lumberyard.
"You will get your invoice and drive right around to the back and get everything you need," he added.
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Danielson has been with Menards for 27 years. He said the company's emphasis on a family atmosphere is important.
"Our core belief is that we roll up our sleeves and we work. We have Midwest common sense and that's what I believe in. I grew up on a farm and that fits right in with the Menards values," he said.
Privately-held Menards began operations in 1958 and is headquartered in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. The company has over 300 stores, including 33 in Michigan. The company also has stores in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin and Wyoming.
— Contact Paul Welitzkin at pwelitzkin@gaylordheraldtimes.com.
This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: After delays Menards is ready to enter Gaylord market
