Observations all along the line - Kimball & the Southern Panhandle First
Observations all along the line - Kimball & the Southern Panhandle First
Owner of Kimball Ace Hardware Jeff Lepp stands in front of his huge selection of grilling equipment.
Jeff Lepp purchased the old Shopko building 15 months ago, and on Monday he and his staff were finally able to open the Kimball Ace Hardware.
Lepp explained some of the challenges they encountered in opening the store included a "constant fight to get products," and he said they are "still fighting with supply chain issues." The store has everything from clothing, housewares and dishes to shoes, grilling supplies, guns, camping equipment and tools. Although they have a wide array of products, Lepp said they would "never truly be finished." Items continue to arrive, and he said he will eventually have 1,500 guns on display in the store.
Lepp anticipates that the store will draw people from Colorado, Wyoming and Western Nebraska, as well as Interstate traffic. He said he expects it to generate tax revenue for the city.
As for now, Kimball Ace Hardware has hired people to staff the store seven days a week, and it will continue to hire people.
