Kohl's celebrates 1,000th store milestone

01 Oct '08

4 min read

Kohl's Department Stores celebrates the opening of its 1,000th store, marking an important milestone in company history. The accomplishment is part of a 47-store expansion this fall which includes 45 stores that are built according to a design that is LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) pre-certified at the Silver level from the U.S. Green Building Council.

“This is an exciting time for our company as we celebrate the opening of our 1,000th store and our green buildings,” said Kevin Mansell, Kohl's President and Chief Executive Officer. “Despite a difficult economy, Kohl's continues to grow with the addition of 47 new stores this fall and more than 6,000 new jobs.

We are poised to continue introducing innovation through store design, store remodels, evolution of the in-store experience and delivery of world class brands at a great value – it's a proven formula that contributes to our profitable growth over the long-term.”

Growth & Innovation:
Among the stores opening this fall are Kohl's first locations in Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach as well as the retailer's entry into Montana, which marks the company's 48th state. Of the 47 new stores, 46 will open October 1, followed by one opening in November. In the spring, Kohl's opened 28 stores. In total, the retailer will open 75 stores in 2008, operating 1,004 stores in 48 states by the end of November.

The company is well-positioned to continue its expansion in new and existing markets. In 2009, Kohl's plans to open approximately 50 new stores and remodel 60 locations, an increase from 36 remodeled stores in 2008.

Despite a difficult economic environment, the company's strong financial position allows for flexibility should additional real estate become available in the marketplace. Longer-term, the company has identified 1,400 trade areas where it sees potential for Kohl's stores, but has not announced a timeline for future openings beyond 2009.

Kohl's is continually assessing its store design with the goal of achieving customer satisfaction and operational excellence. In select stores nationwide, the company is currently testing redesigned Children's and Footwear departments that include updated graphics, unique displays and impactful fixtures. In recent years, Kohl's rolled out innovations in all new stores such as glass storefront entrances, spacious fitting rooms, and redesigned Juniors', Jewelry and Intimates departments.

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