Prince Albert shoppers share hopes for Gateway Mall’s future

Doug Simonite lives near downtown Prince Albert and agrees about the need for a bigger food retailer in the downtown core.

“I live within walking distance from here, so that would be fantastic if I didn’t have to get into the car to get basic goods.”

Other shoppers said they would like to see more retail variety return to the mall.

One shopper said a bookstore would be a welcome addition.

“Bring back Coles, or something like that would be nice, like a nice bookstore. Because right now it’s like Shoppers or Walmart, I guess, is where we can buy books here in town.”

The shopper also said they would like to see a large retailer return to the former Sears location.

“It would be nice to see the old Sears building bring back a big box store there, whether it’s HomeSense…I know we have a Winners, but bringing back something like that or Bed Bath & Beyond or something like that would be nice.”

Another shopper said more clothing options would be a priority for them.

“A few clothing stores would be nice, shoe stores, but specifically clothing stores for bigger people.”

Parents and children also shared ideas, including more options for video games, cosmetics, clothing, and a place where parents could spend time while their kids use the mall’s existing climb and play centre.

However, the biggest buzz surrounding the mall’s future has been the possibility of Costco coming to Prince Albert.

One shopper said she believes the retailer would be a good fit for the city.

“I think it would, just because we are the ‘Gateway to the North,’ so we do supply a lot to the north. I think it would do really well. I know Wholesale is always busy too, so I wouldn’t want to take away from any local places, but I do think that Costco would be great just because our closest Costco is Saskatoon, but that’s quite a trip for some people.”

Hilton said he would welcome a Costco in Prince Albert, but he is unsure whether the city meets the retailer’s requirements.

“There’s no question it would work, but PA doesn’t meet the stipulations for Costco to come here. We don’t have the population, and they have strict regulations when it comes to that. PA would absolutely support a Costco, but Costco won’t come to PA. I don’t think so.”

Costco has expanded into some smaller markets, including Lloydminster, which has a population of about 31,500 according to the most recent census. Prince Albert’s population was 37,756 in the 2021 census.

However, population is only one factor retailers consider when choosing new locations, with companies also looking at things like surrounding communities, customer demand and market potential.

For now, shoppers will be watching to see what direction Gateway Mall takes under its new ownership, and whether any of their wish-list items become reality.

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nick.nielsen@pattisonmedia.com

by Nick Nielsen

Prince Albert shoppers share hopes for Gateway Mall’s future

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