Ollie’s moving into Morgantown Mall

It’s some good news for a change for the Morgantown Mall.

Ollie’s Bargain Outlet, the Harrisburg, Pa.-based deep discounter, is going into a portion of the space once occupied by Belk department store, which left the mall in 2018.

Ollie’s decision to take over the Belk space follows Dunham’s Sports recent opening in the former Elder Beerman department store space.

Also, Appalachian Axe Co. of Westover, which offers patrons a chance to throw axes at bullseye targets and sells handcrafted home goods went into 2,640 square feet of space between Bath and Body Works and Ace’s Breakaway and Play. The business was started in 2018 by two former Marines.

“Morgantown Mall is excited to further diversify and expand our retail roster with Appalachian Axe Co.,” Lisa Martin, the mall’s general manager said in a statement. “We strive to meet shoppers’ demand by providing dynamic national and local brands and retail concepts, as well as family-friendly entertainment options all within our town center.”

Ollie’s, which has 363 locations throughout the country, is known for bargain prices on everything from flooring to food and housewares to sporting goods, its web site said. The closest store to Morgantown is in Uniontown, Pa., with a second West Virginia store in Parkersburg. Another is opening in Ronceverte, Greenbrier County.

Officials from Ollie’s did not return telephone calls seeking comment on the Morgantown store. There is, however, a large sign at the former Belk space announcing a store is coming soon.

Ollie’s is able to offer low prices because much of its merchandise is from overstocked items, different packaging and last year’s colors. It also buys from retailers going through liquidation, its website said.