Glik's has joined the merchants on Main, Park Rapids' "resort community" the drawing card for the family-owned business that was founded in 1897.
The clothiers, based in Illinois, now have 52 stores in seven states, the Park Rapids location catering to juniors and young men.
"The store in Detroit Lakes led us to Park Rapids," said Jeff Glik, president/CEO of the company. "Newfound success" with tourist destinations drove the decision to establish a store in "this awesome resort community."
But there's a minor identity issue to overcome.
"We're hoping it will someday be known as the Glik building," he joked of the former Fuller building.
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The "old sporting goods store" has had a fashion makeover. "We wanted to enhance the beauty of Main," he said. "The ugly awning is history."
Part of "anchoring in a community is fitting in with the aesthetics," Glik said.
He was surprised by the lack of clothing merchants in the city. "We feel we are filling a void."
Customers are greeted with upbeat tunes at the store carrying all name brands, no private labels.
"We're at market every month, making sure we're plugged into what's hot," said Christy Haudrich, a regional manager who'd arrived from Illinois to assist with set up.
For the most part, the store is geared to juniors and young men with some misses and mature men's clothing also available.
Footwear includes sandals, flip flops and skate shoes.
Featured clothing brands are Roxy, Billabong, Hurley Fox and Silver.
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Whimsical Dooney Bourke handbags are also featured.
And a variety of swimwear is ready for the summer ahead.
A grand opening is planned in the near future.
Store hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. The store may be reached at 237-9090.
"We're excited about the Park Rapids decision," Glik said.
