MUSKEGON CHARTER TOWNSHIP, Mich — A vacant former Kmart property in Muskegon Township will be renovated over the next few months into a new multi-faceted retail center.
The $1.5 million investment by Goodwill Industries of West Michigan will also result in 25 new jobs.
Kmart closed its Muskegon Township store after a liquidation sale in 2016.
Goodwill Industries of West Michigan is in the early planning stages for the new store which will be located at 1501 East Apple Avenue.
It entered into a build-to-suit lease agreement with building owner Cherry Street Capital last fall.
Goodwill outlet stores serve as a last-chance opportunity liquidation center for items that did not sell in traditional stores. Goodwill Industries of West Michigan has 16 store locations.
"I think people do enjoy our stores because they love to hunt for a bargain," said Goodwill Industries of West Michigan President and CEO Jeanette Hoyer.
Bargain hunting is expected to increase at the outlet store because some items like apparel will be sold by the pound.
"You purchase things at a really deep discount, things that haven't sold in our other 16 stores," said Hoyer.
Instead of racks shoppers will search thru large trays of merchandise.
Plans call for the store to also house a specialty store selling gently-used furniture, electronics, and other hardline goods. Additionally, Goodwill's e-commerce division will be housed at the site. Plans include a donation drive-thru.
"Every time you drive by it you are like gosh I want something to go there," said Jennifer Hernandez, Muskegon Charter Township Supervisor.
She's pleased with the investment Goodwill plans to make in her community.
And that the old Kmart property didn't sit empty for too long.
"It was always something that our staff was pushing to fill as quickly as possible," said Hernandez. "The owner of the building was actively working for an occupant as well."
The Township's planning commission has already approved Goodwill's plans for the space.
The former Kmart in Norton Shores closed in 2004 and remains empty.
The new Goodwill outlet store is expected to open by August.
Revenue from the store will support Goodwill's employment and training programs, and community support services.
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