Bass Pro reopens flagship store with restrictions

Nearly a month after temporarily closing its flagship store, Bass Pro Shops has reopened the Outdoor World in central Springfield on a limited basis.

Bass Pro spokesman Jack Wlezien said the store restarted operations yesterday. The company late last month cited the coronavirus pandemic and the local stay-at-home order's ruling on nonessential businesses for the temporary closure. However, the city and county this week amended the rule to allow nonessential companies to conduct limited business until the order ends at 11:59 p.m. May 3.

Wlezien said the store is providing same-day curbside pickup for online or phone orders. Additionally, in-store sales of firearms and accessories have opened up for customers who enter the south-side entrance closest to its Hemingway’s restaurant. In-store customers are being limited to ensure social distancing, he said.

"Team members are practicing social distancing and other best practices for public health," Wlezien said via email. "We’re also continuing to support our team by waiving our standard attendance policy and giving team members the clear option to stay home.

"We stand together with local Springfield residents and businesses who are doing their part to help serve our community and act responsibly to curb the spread of the virus."

Wlezien declined to disclose how many employees are returning to work at the store, 621 W. Sunshine St.

Bass Pro announced earlier this month a "significant percentage" of its workforce was furloughed due to the COVID-19 crisis. Layoffs and temporary pay cuts also were enacted, according to past Springfield Business Journal reporting.

Bass Pro last year ranked No. 3 on SBJ's list of the area's largest employers, with 6,000 employees within a 50-mile radius of the Queen City.