When is Hobby Lobby Opening Near Me? Your Definitive Guide

Alright, let’s cut to the chase. You want to know when Hobby Lobby is opening near you. Unfortunately, there’s no crystal ball involved! The opening date of a new Hobby Lobby location depends on a lot of moving parts: construction timelines, permitting processes, hiring, and even weather.

The best way to get the most accurate answer is to:

1. Visit Hobby Lobby’s official website: Their “Store Locator” page will often list “Coming Soon” locations with estimated opening months or quarters. This is the most reliable source.
2. Search local news: Local newspapers, TV stations, and online news outlets often report on new business openings, including major retailers like Hobby Lobby.
3. Check city and county planning websites: These sites often list new construction projects and approved permits, which can give you a heads-up on potential Hobby Lobby locations.
4. Keep an eye on social media: Follow Hobby Lobby’s official social media accounts and even local city or town pages. Rumors and announcements often surface there first.

Remember, even with the best information, opening dates can shift. It’s always a good idea to confirm before making a special trip.

Decoding the Hobby Lobby Expansion Strategy

Hobby Lobby’s expansion strategy is fascinating. They’re not as aggressive as some other retailers, preferring a more measured approach. This means they carefully select locations, often targeting:

• Mid-sized cities and towns: Areas with a strong arts and crafts community and a good family demographic are prime targets.
• Areas with ample parking: Hobby Lobby stores are large, and they need a lot of parking to accommodate customers.
• Locations near other major retailers: Being in a well-established shopping area helps drive foot traffic.
• Sites that can accommodate a large store footprint: Hobby Lobby stores are typically over 55,000 square feet, so they need significant space.

Why the Wait? Understanding the Timeline

Even after a location is announced, there’s often a significant wait before the doors open. Here’s a glimpse into the process:

• Site selection and lease negotiation: This can take several months.
• Permitting and approvals: Local governments have their own timelines, which can vary widely.
• Construction: Building a large retail space takes time, especially if it involves renovations or new construction.
• Hiring and training: Hobby Lobby needs to hire and train a substantial staff for each new store.
• Merchandising: Stocking the shelves with thousands of items is a massive undertaking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Hobby Lobby Openings

Here are some of the most common questions surrounding Hobby Lobby’s store openings, answered with precision and expertise:

1. How can I find out about potential Hobby Lobby locations before they are officially announced?

Unfortunately, finding out about potential locations before an official announcement is difficult. Information is often closely guarded. However, closely monitoring local city and county planning commission meeting agendas could offer early hints about submitted building plans or permits. Look for large retail spaces being proposed!

2. Does Hobby Lobby offer grand opening discounts or promotions?

Yes, Hobby Lobby almost always offers grand opening discounts and promotions to attract customers. These typically include percentage-off coupons, special sales on specific items, and sometimes even giveaways. Check their website, local newspaper ads, and social media for details closer to the opening date.

3. Can I apply for a job at the new Hobby Lobby location before it opens?

Absolutely! Hobby Lobby usually begins the hiring process several weeks or even months before the store opens. You can find job postings on Hobby Lobby’s careers website, as well as on popular job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn. Search for positions in the city where the new store will be located.

4. What types of jobs are typically available at a new Hobby Lobby store?

A new Hobby Lobby store will have a variety of positions to be filled. This includes management positions, cashiers, stock clerks, department specialists (e.g., fabric, art supplies), and loss prevention staff. Entry-level positions are often available, making it a good opportunity for those seeking retail experience.

5. How large are Hobby Lobby stores typically?

Hobby Lobby stores are generally very large, with an average size of over 55,000 square feet. This allows them to carry a vast selection of arts, crafts, hobbies, and home decor items. This size also influences where they choose to build.

6. Does Hobby Lobby offer online ordering and in-store pickup?

Yes, Hobby Lobby offers online ordering with in-store pickup at select locations. This is a convenient option for customers who want to browse the selection online and pick up their order without browsing in person. Check the website or app to see if this option is available at a specific store.

7. What are Hobby Lobby’s store hours?

Hobby Lobby’s standard store hours are typically Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. All Hobby Lobby stores are closed on Sundays to allow employees time for rest and worship. Always confirm the specific hours for a particular location on their website, as they can vary slightly.

8. What kind of products can I expect to find at a Hobby Lobby store?

Hobby Lobby is a treasure trove for crafters and hobbyists! You’ll find a massive selection of arts and crafts supplies, including paints, brushes, canvases, yarn, fabric, beads, jewelry-making supplies, scrapbooking materials, and more. They also carry a wide range of home decor items, such as furniture, wall art, floral arrangements, and seasonal decorations.

9. Does Hobby Lobby offer classes or workshops?

Some Hobby Lobby locations offer classes or workshops on various crafts and hobbies. Check with your local store to see if they have any upcoming events. These can be a great way to learn new skills and meet other crafters.

10. What is Hobby Lobby’s return policy?

Hobby Lobby has a generous return policy. Generally, you can return items within 90 days of purchase with a receipt for a full refund. Returns without a receipt may be eligible for store credit at the current selling price. Review the full return policy on their website for more details.

11. How does Hobby Lobby choose its locations?

Hobby Lobby’s location selection process is strategic. They consider factors like population density, demographics (specifically families and crafting enthusiasts), proximity to other retailers, available parking, and the size of the available space. They also look for areas where they can fill a gap in the market for arts and crafts supplies.

12. Can I contact Hobby Lobby directly to inquire about new store openings?

Yes, you can! While they may not provide specific details about unannounced locations, you can contact Hobby Lobby’s customer service department through their website or by phone. They may be able to offer general information or direct you to the appropriate resources. Using the contact portal on the website will be the best option.

So, there you have it – your comprehensive guide to tracking down that elusive Hobby Lobby opening near you. Patience, persistence, and a little bit of research will be your best tools! Happy crafting!