Hibbett's highlights new store openings

By Staff
Melissa Dozier-Cason, FCT Staff Writer
With the rush of Christmas over, new retailers plan to be open for business early 2007. There is no doubt that Russellville is growing.
Hibbett's Sports plans to open its doors next Saturday, Jan. 6. The management staff is currently on location getting the store ready to take in merchandise, Jeremy Stowe, store manager, said.
"We are expecting more fixtures and cash registers in (Tuesday), and we expect merchandise to start coming in next week," Stowe said.
While the store is expected to open late next week, they are still unsure of the exact details of the grand opening promotions, Stowe said.
"I am not sure what our district manager is planning for our opening yet," Stowe said. "We are just hoping that no complications arise and we can open on schedule."
The store will employ 10 to 12 people and they are currently hiring associates, Stowe said.
"It just means more business for this shopping center," Carol Swinney, manager for Burke's Outlet, said of Hibbett's plans to open.
Swinney noted that expansions on their shopping center have been rumored but no confirmation of the rumors has surfaced.
However, she and her employees have confirmed that surveyors have been seen at the shopping center at various times.
Down the street, Cato Fashions is almost complete. Contractors were on the site yesterday finishing with the electrical.
Construction on the project is behind schedule. The store was scheduled to be finished but construction complications have delayed progress, contractor said.
The opening date for the Cato is not known at this time. Cato representatives were not available for comment on the store's plans for opening.
The shopping center, where Cato is located, is expected to house a nail salon, and a Shoe Show store as well.FCT staff writer