The big building with the log cabin façade is a unique new landmark that will let shoppers know they’re in for an experience.
In January 2014, a press conference was held at the Tsawwassen First Nation to reveal the first confirmed anchor tenants for the Tsawwassen Mills and adjacent Tsawwassen Commons shopping malls.
Ivanhoe Cambridge took the opportunity to announce that Bass Bro Shops was coming to the Mills, a large-scale shopping centre based on similar mega malls it built in Toronto and Calgary. Bass Pro, which has outlets in those other malls, will have a 145,000-square-foot outdoor recreational retail store here. Bass Pro Shops notes it’s more than a retail mecca for outdoor sportsmen. Since the beginning, founder Johnny Morris has been dedicated to inspiring people, especially youth and families, to love, enjoy and conserve the great outdoors.
The company says its lodge-like exteriors and outdoor-themed interiors make them popular with customers. The outdoors feel is brought indoors through massive log and rock work, large indoor aquariums and water features stocked with native fish species as well as an extensive collection of museum quality fish and wildlife mounts. Historic photos and exhibits pay tribute to the region’s outdoor heritage.
The average customer stays two and a half hours and drives an average distance of more than 80 kilometres, the outdoor retail giant states.
The Tsawwassen Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World will feature Uncle Buck’s Fishbowl and Grill. The nautical-themed centre is located within the store and features a unique design geared for family fun and dining. There will be 12 lanes, offering customers the chance to feel like they are bowling under the ocean. It’s been a decade since South Deltans have been able to bowl locally as there’s currently no lanes here.
Established in 1972 and headquartered in Springfield, Missouri, Bass Pro Shops currently has 99 retail and marine centres. The company also operates White River Marine Group, the largest manufacturer of boats in the world by volume, and the wilderness resort Big Cedar Lodge.
Tsawwassen Mills, a 200-store, 1.2-million-square-foot mall, will open Oct. 5.
