Marshalls, the popular off-price retailer, officially opened its doors in Luray, Virginia, on December 7, 2023. Located in the Jamesway Plaza, just west of downtown, the store marks a significant expansion for the chain, which operates over 1,200 locations across 48 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. According to Cassidy Kelly, a spokeswoman for Marshalls, the new outlet will provide a much-needed shopping option for local residents.
The store offers a wide range of products, including fashion, shoes, accessories, gift items, and home décor, similar to its sister store, TJ Maxx. With a workforce of 60 employees, both full-time and part-time, Marshalls aims to make a positive impact on the local economy. In celebration of its opening, the retailer donated $10,000 to local charities, including the Clothes Closet thrift store in Woodstock and a local food pantry. Nancy Carpenter, president of Marshalls, emphasized the chain’s commitment to community engagement, stating, “We hustle every day to bring ‘the good stuff.’”
Local residents expressed enthusiasm about the new store. Emily Holder, who visited with her friend Cassie Lowery during their lunch break, shared her excitement. “They just opened yesterday, and this is our third trip in,” she said. As a grandmother, Holder noted the timing was perfect for holiday shopping. “The layout is just easy shopping. The music is fun and relaxing; it’s not like it’s running you out,” she added.
Lowery echoed her sentiments, highlighting the convenience of having a local store. “As a mom, it’s a lot harder to get out and go shopping. So having one locally means I can swing in and find a Christmas gift easily,” she explained. The store’s friendly staff and quick checkout process also received praise from customers.
Another shopper, Brenda Chrisman, described her experience as positive, stating, “So far, so good. It’s been really nice. We’re so happy to have it here in Luray.” Chrisman was browsing the Christmas aisle without a specific item in mind, simply enjoying the shopping experience.
Families also took advantage of the new store. Kevin Dean brought his children, including four-year-old Hudson and eighteen-month-old Dia. Dean noted that his wife is a loyal customer of TJ Maxx, which influenced their visit to Marshalls. “Honestly, the wife has one of their credit cards. Yeah, she likes TJ Maxx. That’s why we’re here,” he said.
Kaitlyn, Dean’s wife, expressed her relief at the arrival of Marshalls. Originally from New York, she remarked on the value of finding quality skin-care products at affordable prices. “You can get hair care and stuff for half the price that you would get at a salon,” she explained while holding up a child’s outfit.
The excitement surrounding Marshalls extends beyond customers. Brian Sutphin, manager of Faith Christian Stores located nearby, welcomed the new addition to the shopping center. “I was happy to know they were coming in. It just fills a void in the shopping experience in Luray. A wonderful addition,” he remarked. Sutphin, who opened his store just seven weeks before Marshalls, believes the new store will bring more traffic to the area, benefiting local businesses.
With its opening, Marshalls not only enhances the retail landscape of Luray but also signals a renewed sense of community engagement and economic growth. As locals embrace this new shopping destination, the store is poised to become a favorite spot for holiday shoppers and everyday consumers alike.
