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The basics:

• L.L. Bean opening 16,000-square-foot store in Somerset County
• Part of broader retail expansion into strategic U.S. markets
• 50 full- and part-time hires planned ahead of debut
• Store replaces former Cost Plus World Market along Route 22

Ahead of the grand opening of its newest store in New Jersey, L.L. Bean is kicking off hiring efforts.

In a June 3 press release, the Freeport, Maine-based outdoor apparel seller said it is looking to fill 50 jobs for its soon-to-open outpost at Chimney Rock Crossing in Bridgewater.

Full- and part-time positions are available across a range of roles, including store team leads and sales associates. In addition to competitive pay, L.L. Bean says it offers employees paid training, flexible schedules and a discount on products.

Applications are being accepted online.

Founded in 1912, L.L. Bean is known for its practical, long-lasting outdoor styles for everyday wear.

Along with operating a flagship in Freeport, which is one of the state’s biggest tourist attractions, the brand has 60 other retail locations in 19 U.S. states. It also 22 stores in Japan and 13 sites in Canada through a partnership with clothing distributor Jaytex Group.

Within New Jersey, L.L. Bean can be found in Freehold, Paramus and Marlton.

In Bridgewater, the nearly 16,000-square-foot store will feature the brand’s four-season outdoor apparel, footwear and accessories. Additional details about the official opening date and festivities are coming soon, the retailer said. At the Route 22 shopping center, it takes over space previously occupied by Cost Plus World Market. That business closed in December 2020. Last fall, the unit housed a Spirit Halloween location.

A natural fit

Commenting on the upcoming launch, L.L. Bean Chief Retail Officer Greg Elder said, “Bridgewater’s strong ties to outdoor recreation made it a natural fit for our next location. With the town’s proximity to parks, trails and year-round outdoor opportunities, it’s an ideal home for our next store. We’re excited to become part of the community, helping residents gear up for their adventures and fostering a deeper connection to the outdoors, no matter the season.”

Kristen Jones, district manager for L.L. Bean, added, “Bridgewater is a community that embraces the outdoors as part of daily life, and we’re proud to build a team that reflects that same energy and appreciation for time spent outside.”

“We’re building a welcoming, energetic team of individuals who love helping others gear up for everything from winter hikes to summer getaways. Whether it’s rain, snow or sunshine, we’re seeking team members who embrace every season and bring a spirit of warmth and service to the store experience,” she stated.

The opening in Bridgewater comes as L.L. Bean is in the midst of a brick-and-mortar expansion. While the retailer has long employed an omnichannel strategy via its catalog and website, it hopes to broaden its audience via physical stores in new markets – particularly in the Southeast and Midwest, Retail Dive reported.