I really liked their reloading section but it never was fully stocked when you compared shelf tags to what was on the shelf. All in all nicer outfit than G.M. just seemed like it was a tax write off from day one.
Nothing could be further from the truth. They had plans to open it and were too far advanced to stop. The 2008 recession started and lines of credit dried up. They made a go of it but had to retrench to the stores that were well established. They gave severance and I don't know anyone from Gander who regretted the move.
Some people like to spent time in bookstores...but they are almost gone. Soon sporting goods stores will be few and far behind.