Retail revolution in NWA continues

Outdoor retailer Cabela’s has announced plans to open one of its signature stores in Rogers, Ark., next summer, continuing an influx of retail development that has steadily elevated the region’s shopping options.

A decade ago, the biggest decision facing shoppers who lived in Benton County was which Walmart to shop at. Either that or drive to Fayetteville where an aging mall featured Dillard’s and JCPenney as anchor tenants. Other folks made the two-hour trek to Tulsa, Okla., which boasted more choices, but hardly qualified as a shopping Mecca.

Then a few years ago the Pinnacle Hills Promenade lifestyle mall open in Rogers and so did a new Target discount store, Best Buy and an Academy Sporting Goods superstore.

Cabela’s plans call for construction to begin in early 2012 at a site near the Pinnacle Hills Promenade mall and for the store to be open by next summer. The building’s exterior will reflect Cabela’s traditional store model with log construction, stonework, wood siding and metal roofing. A large glass storefront will allow customers to view much of the store’s interior as they approach the building. The 110,000-sq.-ft. store will feature the company’s next-generation layout, which is designed to immerse customers in the outdoor experience and includes conservation-themed wildlife displays and trophy animal mounts displayed on an indoor mountain with a built-in aquarium.

Cabela’s will be a welcome addition to the region’s outdoor enthusiasts and all that’s missing now is a Costco, Whole Foods and maybe Nordstrom or Macy’s.