Ollie’s Bargain Outlet opens 700th store in Baxter

Ollie’s Bargain Outlet opened its 700th store in Baxter on Wednesday, Oct. 28, welcoming shoppers to a new location in the Westgate Mall. The grand opening marked the chain’s fourth entry into Minnesota and added to its network spanning 36 states. Darrin Wheat, the company’s regional director of stores, noted that the store serves as a new market for the retailer in the Brainerd lakes area.

Approximately 110 people formed a line extending down the block before 9 a.m. that morning. The weather was mild and overcast, a stark contrast to the cold conditions typical of a late November Black Friday shopping day. Inside, staff members managed the crowd with a soft unannounced opening beforehand, allowing them to prepare for the official launch. An employee used a large stick with an Ollie face to direct customers to checkout, which moved smoothly throughout the morning.

Wheat described the company’s model as a search for excess inventory that allows for reduced prices. “We buy excess inventory and bring the savings to the customers,” Wheat said. He stated that items are typically sold at 70% off normal retail prices. The store carries a wide variety of products, including name-brand goods that rotate frequently. Wheat cautioned that inventory changes often, meaning specific items may not be available during a return visit.

The retail space includes sections for toys, books, food, pet supplies, clothing, and household goods. Shoppers found stacks of jigsaw puzzles, office supplies, and holiday items such as Halloween candy and Christmas decorations. The store also stocked electronics, furniture, and seasonal decor. Wheat characterized the shopping experience as a treasure hunt, encouraging customers to explore the diverse array of products available in the expansive space.

Local residents expressed satisfaction with the new option. Shelley Spencer, a Brainerd resident, picked up a bag of Smarties candies and noted that she had not had them since childhood. She said the prices were good and that she ended up with more items in her cart than she had expected. Jim Vanderschaaf, who was examining Bissell vacuum cleaners, noted that he was familiar with the chain from other regions. He said the inventory rotates, but shoppers can find good deals on staples.

The Baxter location employs 35 people, which Wheat said is standard for a new store opening. He expected the store to welcome between 150 and 200 people in the first hour, a turnout that matched the local experience. Wheat said the company has accelerated its growth over the last two years and expects that trend to continue. He encouraged the community to visit the store to see the current selection of discounted name-brand products.