Another Department Store?

 For a shopping enthusiast like myself Myrtle Beach is a literal haven for wallet extra curriculars thanks to a plethora of great shopping around the area. The Grand Strand boasts not just one, but two phenomenal Tanger Outlet locations, each housing over a hundred stores—but the shopping panorama certainly does not end there! The “new” Coastal Grande Mall is a treat for all fellow aficionados and is conveniently located right here in the heart of Myrtle Beach. A short drive either north or south leads spenders to the equally spacious and rewarding Colonial or Inlet Square Malls. If shops, boutiques, and local flavor are more your speed try Broadway at the Beach, Barefoot Landing, or various hot spots lining the Ocean Boulevard or Kings Highway just waiting to be discovered.

Despite the rich collection already pervading the area nothing generates greater anticipation than the possibility of new shopping options opening soon. Thus, dare I say I was salivating at the mere mention in The Sun News about a proposed addition to the Coastal Grand Mall? Longing for variety, distinction, and previously unattained retail ingenuity I read with vigor about the possibility of obtaining a one-story and 105,008 square foot extension onto an already rich paradise of commerce. Scanning further into the article however I was discouraged when the department store was finally named. It was to be…………drum roll please…………sigh, just another JC Penny’s. 

Least I sound biased I have absolutely nothing against JC Penny’s, quite the contrary I actually frequent it on a regular basis. Though with locations already standard at both the Inlet Square and Colonial Malls—Myrtle Beach needs another JC Penny’s like it needs another discount beachwear store littering US 17. From a convenience standpoint another location of such a popular company will fulfill many needs and desires of locals since they would not have to traverse to the other malls. Needless to say, the addition merely disappoints my own selfish aspirations for Myrtle Beach’s attainment of indisputable shopping perfection. I hardly think locals need another of the same department store, nor do folks from near and far travel to view the three JC Penny’s located all within a 50 mile radius. 

I challenge each and every one of you to ponder the thought, what DOES the shopping palette here in Myrtle Beach still leave to be desired?  I personally suggest to further developers a need for Ikea, Younkers, H&M or Nordstrom’s just to name a few popular shopping gems.  Any other suggestions or should I be satisfied with just another JC Penny’s?