Reuters reports Gander Mountain, the St. Paul based hunting and fishing chain, is preparing to file for bankruptcy. The bankruptcy is reportedly due to aggressive expansion that failed to draw new customers. Gander Mountain is known as America’s firearms superstore.
Gander has faced stiff competition from Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Currently, Gander Mountain has about 160 stores, with about 60 new stores opened or announced since 2012. According to Reuters, the company has a $30 million loan and revolving credit lines for $25 million and $500 million.
If Gander Mountain files, it will be the fifth outdoor retailer to file for bankruptcy in the last year. Others include Sports Chalet, Sports Authority, EMS, and Eastern Outfitters.