New products and a stronger Northwest vibe will brighten the Willamette Store after a weeklong renovation beginning Aug 1.
The store will close Aug. 1–4 for the installation of new carpet and counters, as well as wood flooring to “reflect the wooded environment we live in,” says store manager David Frederick. The store may hold reduced operating hours — likely from 8:30 a.m.–2 p.m. — on July 31.
Campus clients are encouraged to plan ahead and purchase needed items from the store before its temporary closure.
When the store reopens, racks of clothing at the entrance will replace the cash registers, which will be moved to the customer service area. Over the next year, customers can expect more female apparel, fleece vests, and infant and youth sizes, as well as more sweaters, T-shirts and value clothing. A new small gift section will be available, and eventually a line of blankets carrying the Willamette logo from Pendleton.
The Mill Stream Market is also being relocated, with all the coolers, candy and snacks moving into the back of the bookstore. It will feature healthier goodies such as Gatorade bars, alternative cookies and other grab-and-go items.
The store’s summer renovation is the first of two phases, with the second possibly happening this winter.