Maple Grove Target Remodel to Include Liquor Store Right Next to Haskell’s
The Maple Grove City Council has granted Target a liquor license, which is part of the retailer’s roughly $10 million plan to remodel the store. The extensive renovation is expected to begin in two weeks and be finished by early July.
“We’re excited here,” said Samuel Aubart, a Target spokesperson. “We’re getting the full overhaul, the full remodel. Pretty much every department in our store will be touched.”
Currently Maple Grove has 12 liquor stores within city boundaries. Target would be 13.
“I’m glad that Target’s putting an investment into the community,” said Maple Grove Mayor Mark Steffenson. “In this environment where retail is struggling at times, I think it is always a concern as to whether or not these stores will continue to operate.”
Haskell’s Located Right Next Door
However, not everyone is excited about Target getting into the alcohol business. Haskell’s is located right next door.
“I’m just concerned having another liquor store that close,” said John Farrell, vice president from Haskell’s, at Monday night’s council meeting. “I’m just concerned as a responsible seller of a controlled substance, and luckily with a very clean track record here in Maple Grove, that now we’re going to have issues. I hope that we don’t.”
Steffenson added, “We have some liquor stores here that are sort of across the street from each other. Maybe sharing a wall isn’t ideal, but I think it’s fine.”
