The wait is almost over

Rachel Brant

Staff writer

Silverdale shoppers, the wait is almost over.

After months of anticipation, Kohl’s is scheduled to open tomorrow. The department store sits in the spot left vacant by Mervyns and is the newest addition to Kitsap Mall.

“They’re a great retailer and they bring exceptional brands and products at a great price,” said Dan Engelhard, senior manager of Kitsap Mall. “We’re very excited about their addition to the shopping center.”

The Silverdale location is one of 95 Kohl’s department stores opening nationwide this fall and one of seven to open in Washington, bringing the state’s total to 13.

“Kohl’s customers know they can expect great things from us. We carry world class brands, offer consistent value and convenience and are committed to the communities we serve...,” said Greg Thomas, Kohl’s district manager, in a news release. “We are thrilled to celebrate this historical grand opening with our new neighbors.

The Mervyns building was sold to Kohl’s for $14 million in March 2006, according to county documents, and closed last December.

The Silverdale Kohl’s store is one of nearly 200 stores nationwide to feature a newly enhanced look. The exterior includes outdoor seating and music as well as glass storefront entrances with showcase windows displaying the latest Kohl’s fashions.

“We know our customers in this area are going to be excited,” said Denise Lemke, Silverdale store manager.

The interior of the Silverdale store features an expanded juniors’ department, spacious fitting rooms with lounge areas, updated restrooms and redesigned customer service and checkout stations.

“Once you walk into this juniors’ area you aren’t going to want to walk out of it,” Lemke said with a smile.

Lemke came from California to manage Kohl’s in Silverdale. She previously spent 29 years with Mervyns and she is excited to open the department store.

“When our customers walk in they are going to be wowed,” she said. “We’ve got it all for them.”

Kohl’s is a “destination shop,” according to Lemke and carries a wide variety of products including clothing, shoes and accessories for men, women and children as well as kitchen accessories, bedding, cosmetics, luggage, jewelry and more.

“It’s where you can find a trendy- looking sweater or a simple sweatshirt,” Lemke said.

Kohl’s also carries various national brands including Levi’s, Carter’s and Cuisinart as well as exclusive brands such as Chaps, ELLE and Candie’s. Two exclusive brands were just introduced to Kohl’s in September: Simply Vera Vera Wang and Food Network.

“Vera’s going to be a big draw,” Lemke said. “I mean what woman wouldn’t want to say ‘I’m wearing Vera.’”

Lemke said Chaps is one of Kohl’s most popular brands and customers can purchase Chaps clothing, bedding and even bath towels at the large department store.

“Chaps is a really strong brand for us,” Lemke said. “Between Chaps and Vera, we’re very excited.”

Kohl’s has created about 150 more jobs in Silverdale and Lemke said even though positions are filled, she continues to receive applications. Lemke and her team of employees have been working around the clock to ensure the Silverdale store is open to the public tomorrow.

“We’re pulling it together,” she said with a smile. “You’ll be surprised how quickly it all comes together. I couldn’t have done it without the great team I have.”

Kohl’s, based in Menomonee Falls, Wis., opened its first store in 1962 in Brookfield, Wis. The grand opening of the Silverdale store will be at 6:45 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 14, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“I think Silverdale is ready for a new destination and I think we’ll really be able to make a statement,” Lemke said. “We’ve got fantastic stuff we’re opening with, this is going to be huge.”

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