A mega outdoor “adventure store” is coming to Southern California when Bass Pro Shops opens a store in La Mesa, the first one ever in San Diego county.
The popular outdoor retailer announced on Wednesday plans to construct a massive 148,000-square-foot store at the Grossmont Center, with an opening date expected in 2028.
“It’s exciting to serve the great anglers and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the San Diego region,” Johnny Morris, legendary angler, conservationist, and founder of the company, said in the announcement.
“With access to both saltwater and freshwater fishing, this area offers something truly special, and we look forward to helping families and friends enjoy it together.”
The store is a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts of fishing, hiking, camping and hunting.
The company is promising a truly unique experience when shoppers finally get a chance to see inside the new location, with a “custom design inspired by the region’s outdoor heritage.”
The retailer said the store will bring more than 150 jobs to the area, something La Mesa Mayor Mark Arapostathis said he couldn’t be more thrilled about.
“This announcement is another exciting milestone in the ongoing transformation of Grossmont Center,” Arapostathis said.
“Bass Pro Shops will bring new jobs, attract visitors from throughout the region, and further strengthen our local economy.”
“We look forward to the positive impact this investment will have on our community for years to come,” he added.
The La Mesa shop will be the sixth one to open in California since the company opened its first location in the state in 2007.
Earlier this year, the retailer earned the title of “America’s Most Trusted Outdoor Retailer” for the fifth year in a row.
Founded in 1972, Morris started selling tackle out of his father’s liquor store in Springfield, Missouri, per the release. The company has since grown to nearly 200 locations across North America.
The news comes following several major store closures at the outdoor shopping complex.
Last month, the theater chain Reading Cinemas, announced it was closing up shop after operating at the center since 2008, a post on Instagram read.
Earlier this year, Macy’s announced it was closing its doors at the complex for good, citing poor sales as one of the reasons.
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