Ollie’s Bargain Outlet could open in the Memorial Plaza early next year, according to a company media contact.
SHEBOYGAN – A new month will bring new news, but first here’s a recap of business stories you might’ve missed in October.
Recent news included two retailers planning to move into shopping centers, the sale of a bowling alley and the future plans of a closed bank.
Ollie’s Bargain Outlet on pace to replace Big Lots
Discount retailer Ollie’s Bargain Outlet will replace Big Lots, 3426 Kohler Memorial Drive, which closed this fall.
It could open early next year, according to Senior Vice President of Marketing and Advertising Tom Kuypers. He confirmed the Big Lots lease was one of several acquired by Ollie’s in a bankruptcy sale.
Ollie’s says it offers bargains on “real brands” across books, furniture and more.
It opened Wisconsin stores in Kenosha and Rothschild, part of its plans to open 50 new stores in the 2024 fiscal year.
Burlington store opened in Memorial Mall
Another discount department store took over a storefront. Burlington opened in the former Bed Bath & Beyond in the Memorial Mall Nov. 1.
It is the 14th store in the state and offered giveaways and discounts during its grand-opening weekend, including $10 discount cards and Burlington brand umbrellas.
Golf course owner takes over Lakeshore Lanes
Tyler Luedtke bought Lakeshore Lanes, a popular south-side destination, from the Hilbert family for $3.8 million.
Luedtke owns the Crystal Lake Golf Course, formerly Lanserlot Golf Course. He recently bought bowling alleys in Elkhart Lake and Fond du Lac for $725,000 and $2.7 million, respectively.
“Our mission is to keep these family-friendly venues thriving and affordable for all ages, preserving them for future generations,” Luedtke said in a news release.
He could not be immediately reached to learn if Lakeshore Lanes’ operations would change under his ownership.
Wells Fargo bank expected to be townhomes
The former Wells Fargo bank and lot, 636 Wisconsin Ave., could become a mixed-use development and townhomes.
The Common Council on Oct. 7 entered a pre-development agreement with 3 Amigos Apartments, LLC, which it adopted Oct. 21.
Before the new project, the building will undergo asbestos removal and demolition later this year.
Have a story tip? Contact Alex Garner at 224-374-2332 or agarner@gannett.com. Follow her on X (formerly Twitter) at @alexx_garner.