A New Retail Giant Arrives in Homer Glen
On March 21, 2024, the village of Homer Glen, Illinois, welcomed a new chapter in its retail landscape with the grand opening of Runnings at 15830 S. Bell Road. This event marked the transformation of a space with a storied past—previously a Kmart, Big R, Stock + Field, and R.P. Home & Harvest—into a vibrant hub for home, farm, and outdoor supplies. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by local dignitaries and enthusiastic shoppers, signaled Runnings’ commitment to serving the community with its expansive inventory and customer-first ethos. For residents, this opening wasn’t just about a new store—it was about revitalizing a familiar location with fresh opportunities.
The History Behind Runnings
A Legacy of Service Since 1947
Runnings, a Minnesota-based retailer, has been a staple in the home and farm retail industry for over 75 years. Founded in 1947 by the Dennis and Adele Reed family, the company has grown from a single store to a network of 80 locations across 12 states, employing over 2,700 workers. Its acquisition of R.P. Home & Harvest in June 2023, including the Homer Glen location, expanded its footprint and reinforced its mission to provide quality products for rural and suburban lifestyles.
From Kmart to Runnings: The Evolution of 15830 S. Bell Road
The building at 15830 S. Bell Road has seen multiple transformations over the years. Once a bustling Kmart, it later housed Big R, Stock + Field, and R.P. Home & Harvest before Runnings took over. Each transition brought new hopes for the community, but Runnings’ arrival feels different. With its established reputation and diverse product offerings, the store promises to be a long-term anchor for Homer Glen’s retail scene.
What Runnings Brings to Homer Glen
A One-Stop Shop for Home, Farm, and Outdoor Needs
Runnings is more than just a farm store—it’s a comprehensive retail destination. Shoppers can find everything from clothing and footwear to tools, sporting goods, pet supplies, lawn and garden gear, and housewares. The store’s pet-friendly policy, allowing customers to bring their furry companions, adds a welcoming touch that resonates with the community’s family-oriented values.
Grand Opening Highlights and Community Engagement
The grand opening, held from March 21 to March 23, 2024, was a three-day celebration packed with excitement. The first 100 customers each day received gift cards ranging from $10 to $250, creating a buzz that drew crowds. Local radio station WCCQ broadcasted live, adding to the festive atmosphere. Runnings also hosted a pet adoption event shortly after, on May 25, 2025, partnering with Hopeful Tails Animal Rescue to connect pets with new families, showcasing its commitment to community involvement.
Store Hours and Accessibility
Runnings in Homer Glen is designed for convenience, with hours that cater to busy schedules:
- Monday–Friday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Saturday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Sunday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Located at 15830 S. Bell Road, the store is easily accessible, making it a go-to destination for residents of Homer Glen and nearby Lockport.
Why Runnings Stands Out
A Comparison with Other Local Retailers
To understand Runnings’ impact, let’s compare it with other retailers in the Homer Glen area:
| Store | Product Focus | Pet-Friendly | Community Events | Operating History |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Runnings | Home, farm, outdoor, pet supplies | Yes | Adoption events, grand openings | 75+ years |
| O’Reilly Auto Parts | Auto parts and accessories | No | Ribbon cuttings | 60+ years |
| S&T Too Pizza | Specialty food (pizza, meats, pasta) | No | Ribbon cuttings | 60+ years |
Runnings’ diverse inventory and pet-friendly policy set it apart, offering a broader appeal than specialized stores like O’Reilly Auto Parts or S&T Too Pizza.
Pros and Cons of Shopping at Runnings
Pros:
- Wide range of products for home, farm, and outdoor activities.
- Pet-friendly environment welcomes families and their pets.
- Strong community engagement through events like pet adoptions.
- Competitive pricing and frequent promotions, such as gift card giveaways.
Cons:
- Transition from R.P. Home & Harvest may cause initial confusion for returning customers.
- Limited store hours on Sundays compared to competitors like Walmart.
- Large inventory may overwhelm first-time shoppers unfamiliar with the layout.
The Community Impact of Runnings’ Arrival
Revitalizing Local Commerce
The opening of Runnings has breathed new life into Homer Glen’s retail scene. The store’s location, once a revolving door of failed chains, now serves as a beacon of stability. Local residents, like lifelong Homer Glen native Sarah Thompson, shared their excitement: “I remember shopping at Kmart as a kid. Seeing Runnings here feels like a fresh start. I love that I can bring my dog and grab everything from gardening tools to dog treats in one trip.” This sentiment reflects the store’s ability to blend nostalgia with modern convenience.
Supporting Local Jobs and Economy
Runnings’ expansion to Homer Glen has created new job opportunities, from cashiers to stock associates. With over 2,700 employees company-wide, Runnings emphasizes fair wages and a supportive work environment, contributing to the local economy. The store’s commitment to staying open during its transition from R.P. Home & Harvest ensured no downtime, maintaining jobs and customer access.
Fostering Community Connections
Beyond products, Runnings is building bridges with the community. The pet adoption event on May 25, 2025, was a hit, with families like the Johnsons adopting a rescue puppy named Max. “We weren’t planning to adopt, but Runnings made it so easy to meet the animals and fall in love,” said Emily Johnson. Such events strengthen Runnings’ role as a community hub, not just a retailer.
People Also Ask (PAA)
What products does Runnings in Homer Glen sell?
Runnings offers a vast selection, including clothing, footwear, tools, sporting goods, farm and pet supplies, lawn and garden gear, housewares, and outdoor equipment. It’s a one-stop shop for rural and suburban needs.
Where is the Runnings store located in Homer Glen?
The store is at 15830 S. Bell Road, Homer Glen, IL 60491, a central location previously occupied by Kmart and other retailers.
Is Runnings pet-friendly?
Yes, Runnings welcomes pets, allowing customers to shop with their dogs or other animals. The store also stocks a variety of pet food, treats, and toys.
When was the grand opening of Runnings in Homer Glen?
The grand opening took place from March 21 to March 23, 2024, with gift card giveaways and a live broadcast by WCCQ.
Shopping at Runnings: Tips for a Great Experience
Plan Your Visit
With its large inventory, Runnings can feel overwhelming. Check the store’s layout online or ask staff for help to locate specific items. Arriving early on weekdays avoids weekend crowds.
Take Advantage of Promotions
Runnings frequently offers deals, like the gift card giveaways during the grand opening. Sign up for their newsletter or follow their social media for updates on sales and events.
Bring Your Pet
The pet-friendly policy makes shopping fun for the whole family. Bring a leash and some treats to keep your furry friend happy while you browse.
FAQ Section
What makes Runnings different from other farm stores?
Runnings stands out with its diverse inventory, pet-friendly policy, and community-focused events like adoption drives. Its 75-year history and family-owned status add trust and reliability.
Are there job opportunities at Runnings in Homer Glen?
Yes, Runnings hires for various roles, including cashiers, stock associates, and management. Check their careers page for openings.
Does Runnings in Homer Glen sell firearms?
Yes, the Homer Glen location is a licensed Type 1 Dealer in firearms (other than destructive devices), as listed in the Arms Directory.
Can I shop online at Runnings?
Runnings offers online shopping through their website, with options for in-store pickup or delivery, depending on the product.
Are there other Runnings locations nearby?
Runnings has expanded across Illinois, with nearby stores in Morris, Streator, and Pekin. Visit their website for a full list of locations.
The Future of Runnings in Homer Glen
A Long-Term Commitment
Unlike its predecessors, Runnings brings a proven track record and a clear vision for the future. The company’s acquisition of 22 R.P. Home & Harvest locations, including Homer Glen, signals a strategic expansion aimed at serving growing communities. Manager Chris Nance’s comments at a similar grand opening in Lima, Ohio, echo this sentiment: “We’re here for the long haul, ready to serve the community with quality products and great service.”
Adapting to Local Needs
Runnings is poised to adapt to Homer Glen’s unique blend of rural and suburban lifestyles. Whether it’s supplying farmers with tools or helping suburban families with lawn care, the store’s versatility ensures it meets diverse needs. Plans for future community events, like tractor shows or seasonal sales, will likely keep residents engaged.
A Bright Spot in Homer Glen’s Retail Landscape
As Homer Glen continues to grow, Runnings stands as a testament to the village’s resilience and appeal. The store’s grand opening wasn’t just a retail event—it was a celebration of community, opportunity, and a fresh start. For residents like Sarah and Emily, Runnings is more than a store; it’s a place to connect, shop, and build memories. As one local put it, “It’s nice to have a store that feels like it’s here for us.” With its doors open and its shelves stocked, Runnings is ready to write the next chapter in Homer Glen’s story.