Area residents were pleased to learn this week that Dunham’s Sports is returning to the Marquette market, after an absence of several years.

The store is going to be located in the Westwood Mall along U.S. 41 in Marquette Township, in the space formerly occupied by Younkers. Company officials tell us the new store will be twice the size of the old store, which was located in the old Marquette Mall. The increased size will help showcase a broader assortment of categories and brands and provide a best-in-class customer experience, a top company official said.

“If you liked the old store, you will love the new store,” said David Lynn, president of Dunham’s Sports, in a news release. “We work tirelessly to ensure that our in-store experience evolves to meet the demands of our customers.”

The press release noted an expanded footwear and apparel area will be offered, a much larger outdoor hunt, fish, camp and water sports area, and a broad selection of fitness equipment. In addition, the new Dunham’s will offer an expanded selection of equipment for all team sports from youth through adult, a large golf department, a broad selection of indoor and outdoor games, go-carts and mini bikes, hydration, work wear, denim and more. The store will feature big-name brands like Under Armour, Nike, Carhartt, Yeti, Hydro Flask, Levi’s and many more.

We like this development for several reasons. First, there is the obvious plus of having a vibrant, customer-centric retailer like Dunham’s back in the area. Second, it will utilize a big chunk of the Westwood Mall, and all retailers there will benefit. Last, but certainly not least, this project to some degree helps end the pandemic-driven funk the area has dealt with.

Welcome back Dunham’s. The new store is much welcomed.