Jill Schramm/MDN Harbor Freight Tools is remodeling the former Gordman’s building to open its new store this summer.

CALABASAS, Calif. – Harbor Freight Tools, a supplier of low-cost, quality tools, has announced it will open a new store at 3220 16th St. SW in Minot this summer.

An official opening date will be announced later.

Construction has already begun at the location, using local workers and companies from the surrounding Minot area, the company reported.

In addition, the store is expected to bring between 25 and 30 new jobs to the community, including sales and logistic supervisors, senior associates, sales associates and seasonal opportunities.

“We’ve been looking to open a location in Minot for a number of years so that we can provide the tools and equipment at tremendous values to the community,” said Trey Feiler, senior vice president of Real Estate and Construction. “In addition to finding a great location, we were attracted by the availability of great associates in the Minot area, and we look forward to having them join the Harbor Freight team.”

The family-owned company started in Southern California in 1977, when 17-year-old Eric Smidt began transforming his father’s small phone sales business into a successful mail order company, bypassing the resellers, dealing directly with factories, and passing the savings on to the customer. The company opened its first store in 1980.

Harbor Freight Tools is one of the nation’s fastest growing retailers, opening two new stores every week.