Red Apple celebrates its grand opening

THUNDER BAY – Red Apple, previously known as The Bargain Shop, had its grand opening on Friday, celebrating with a ribbon cutting, cake, and free $10 gift cards to the first 100 customers.

Helena Saarimaki, manager of The Red Apple, is very excited. “I was the bargain shop before. We are the same company, same store, same sale events. I’ve waited 12 years for this renovation and it’s finally here.”

Saarimaki thanked her team of staff who help every day, but who’ve worked extra hard through this renovation. Under the new brand, the store has expanded its product line to include brand-name items, like clothing, toys, and home products.

Mayor Ken Boshcoff said the opening was very inspiring. “It’s so great – the upgrades and the people’s enthusiasm. It’s such a positive impact on our community. You could really feel that people are aware that the town is on a new rise.”

“For the store owners, I know that they were absolutely thrilled to be honored with many people lined up to come in. It’s just a great morning,” Boshcoff added.

He mentioned that the line of people highlighted the need for this store in the community. “Everybody’s smiling, everybody’s happy and the owners are quite thrilled.”

The store is located at 640 River St. in Grandview Mall.

Customers over the weekend have a chance to enter a raffle for a $1,000 shopping spree at the new store.