Mountain Equipment Co-op to open Saskatoon store in 2020

Mountain Equipment Co-op, awell-known outdoors outfitter, plans to set up shop in Saskatoon in the next two years.

"Saskatoon is the province's gateway city to outdoor recreation," CEO David Labistoursaid in a news release. "Our new store will bring our product selection, programs and services to more members and be closer to where they live, work and play."

The 20,000-foot store, whichis expected to be be completed by 2020,will feature a timber canopy over its entrance, and a new architectural look that will be the first of its kind.

Terry Napper,the Calgary-based general manager of the mall, said MEC won't go in the former Sears space.

"The food court is moving to the upper level of Sears on the west side. MEC is going into the existing food court," Napper said.

The member-owned co-op, which got its start in 1971, has 23 stores across the country.