Gander Mountain, once a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, has undergone significant changes over the years. Known for its wide range of hunting, fishing, and camping gear, the store was a go-to for many looking to gear up for their outdoor adventures. However, the retail landscape has shifted dramatically, and Gander Mountain’s journey has been anything but smooth.
Is Gander Mountain still in business? Gander Mountain is no longer operating under its original name. The company filed for bankruptcy in 2017 and subsequently closed many of its stores. The assets of Gander Mountain were acquired by Camping World Holdings, Inc., which rebranded the stores as Gander Outdoors. While Gander Mountain as it was originally known no longer exists, the essence of the brand continues under the new name, Gander Outdoors.
After the bankruptcy filing, many of the original Gander Mountain stores were closed. Camping World, led by CEO Marcus Lemonis, saw an opportunity to revitalize the brand and purchased the assets. The rebranding to Gander Outdoors aimed to maintain the core offerings of hunting, fishing, and camping gear, while also expanding the product range to include more RV and outdoor lifestyle products.
Impact of Bankruptcy
The bankruptcy of Gander Mountain was a significant event in the retail industry. It highlighted the challenges faced by brick-and-mortar stores in an era increasingly dominated by online shopping. The closure of numerous stores left a gap in many communities where Gander Mountain had been a staple for outdoor gear. Employees were affected, with many losing their jobs as stores shut down.
Despite these challenges, the acquisition by Camping World brought a glimmer of hope. The rebranded Gander Outdoors stores aimed to provide a fresh start, combining the legacy of Gander Mountain with new offerings and a renewed focus on customer experience. This transition was seen as a strategic move to leverage the brand’s existing customer base while adapting to the changing retail environment.
Current Status
Today, Gander Outdoors operates under the umbrella of Camping World Holdings, Inc. The stores continue to offer a wide range of outdoor products, catering to enthusiasts of hunting, fishing, camping, and RVing. While the name Gander Mountain no longer graces the storefronts, the spirit of the brand lives on through Gander Outdoors. The company has also embraced a strong online presence, recognizing the importance of e-commerce in reaching a broader audience.
In conclusion, Gander Mountain as it was originally known is no longer in business. However, its legacy continues through Gander Outdoors, which operates under the ownership of Camping World Holdings, Inc. The transition has allowed the brand to adapt to the evolving retail landscape while still serving the needs of outdoor enthusiasts.