Bear Paw Hardware opens new store on First Street

Bear Paw Hardware, a new hardware store, has opened in the location on the 400 Block of First Street that once housed Creative Leisure.

Jeff Lohse, vice president and co-owner of Bear Paw Lumber on the east edge of Havre, said the new store officially opened Jan 30. Since then, employees have been moving materials and merchandise to the new store.  

Lohse said the new store, which is splitting off from the lumber store, will focus on selling traditional household items rather than building materials which are sold at the lumber store.

“Everybody we talk to sure thinks it’s a good idea,” Lohse said.

He said that the additional store will enable his business to reach more people at a convenient location.

“Hopefully, we can direct as many customers from our current store there and hopefully being on Main Street, hopefully that draws some interest too,” Lohse said.

He said four employees, both full- and part-time now work at the store.

The store hours are Monday through Saturday 8 a.m to 6 p.m.