Business : Shopko doors to open March 13; Grand Opening set for March 25

Shopko employees have been busy stocking the shelves with the opening just days away.

Construction crews are putting their final touches on the project as the Vinton Alco becomes the Vinton Shopko Hometown.

Store officials plan to open on Sunday, March 13, in what they call a "soft opening," which means the store will be open for business but not actively advertising.

A grand opening celebration is set for Friday, March 25.

The company has issued its first formal announcement about the store's opening:

Shopko has announced that it will open a new Shopko Hometown store located at 911 S K Ave on March 25. Shopko Hometownprovides local residents a convenient new community-focused shopping experience that features essential name-brand items.

Shopko Hometown combines Shopko’s strong reputation for customer service with a broad and dynamic offering of national brands and private label brands at a great value. Product offerings include clothing, home furnishings, toys, consumer electronics, seasonal items and lawn and garden products – all in attractive, well laid out, easy-to-shop store format.

“The excitement surrounding our grand opening isn’t just about the products we sell, it’s about making life easier for the customers we are privileged to serve,” said Peter McMahon, Shopko CEO. “It’s about the stuff that counts – the essentials that help people get ready for work or school or to enjoy the weekend with family and friends.”

A special grand opening event, highlighted by a $2,500 check presentation to Vinton-Shellsburg High School by the Shopko Foundation, will take place at 8:45 AM on Friday, March 25. All residents are invited to join the Shopko team and community leaders for the event. For those who can’t wait for the grand opening celebration, the store will be open to customers starting on March 13.

“At Shopko Hometown, we understand that we’re simply part of the larger community,” said Peter McMahon, Shopko CEO. “That’s why we support local organizations, such as schools and 501(c)(3) organizations, that are vital to the well-being and future growth of the community.”

The first 100 customers in line will receive a free $10 Shopko gift card. A number of prizes will also be given out through “register to win” events. Customers will also be encouraged to sign up for Shopko’s loyalty program to receive exclusive mailers, $10 off on their birthday and special email announcements and offers. Every customer who uses their loyalty member card on the day of the grand opening will be entered into a drawing for a $1,000 shopping spree. Refreshments will be served inside the store.