One customer in the parking lot blamed the closing on store theft and indicated she would simply start shopping at another store. Gregory and Ruth Runnels of Niles said they've noticed that the store has been going downhill in recent years with longer lines and less attention to cleaning. "We waited a half hour to check out," Gregory Runnels said. The Runnellses wondered whether the store was sliding because of the inability to get enough workers, which has been plaguing many retailers, restaurants and other businesses since the pandemic. "But I hate to see a big store close," Ruth Runnels said. The company said it was hopeful that store employees would remain with the company by transferring to another nearby store. Walmart operates a Sam’s Club and Walmart in Mishawaka, a Walmart on Ireland Road in South Bend and another on South 11 th Street in Niles, among other locations.
CH has opened a Plan & Order Point in Stockport, Greater Manchester – a smaller store, dedicated to kitchen and bedroom planning, where customers can receive home furnishing advice and design expertise. The Plan & Order Point is situated in the Merseyway Shopping Centre and spans over 71 sqm. Michael Parker, area manager, IKEA UK, says: “Our investment in the North West is part of our long-term plan to transform our retail business, continuing to make it easier for people to enjoy what IKEA offers using a variety of convenient ways. The North West is a key region for us, being home to over seven million people, and also being the place that IKEA first opened a UK store, 35 years ago in Warrington. “This new Plan & Order Point, along with one already open in Aintree, Merseyside, and another soon to open in Preston, will allow customers to get inspiration and expert advice in convenient locations closer to where they live. Together with ou...