/NOT FOR RELEASE OVER US NEWSWIRE SERVICES/
EDMONTON, Dec. 2 /CNW/ - The Brick Group Income Fund (TSX: BRK.UN) ("The
Brick") today announced the grand opening of five new store locations on
December 3, 2008. Featuring the latest in store design and with up to 57,000
sq.ft. of space, the new stores are located in:- Drummondville, QC
- Niagara Falls, ON
- London, ON
- Winnipeg (West), MB
- Coquitlam, BC."We are extremely pleased to be building our business in these new
communities as The Brick continues its long-term strategy of growth and
innovation," said President and CEO Kim Yost. "While the economic downturn has
other retailers going out of business, we are committed to going out FOR
business, with the single biggest one-day store opening in our 37-year
history."
"The Brick is strongly positioned to achieve gains in the current retail
market -- our target middle-low segments are the highest volume consumers and
three-quarters of sales are replacements of basic household items. Experience
has shown us that furniture and appliance demand continues during economic
downturns. We have the added ability to respond to consumer credit needs
internally," said Mr. Yost.
"The newest locations are in attractive markets that reflect The Brick's
selective capital spending strategy. The long-term focus of growing market
share is being supported by more immediate initiatives to reduce internal
costs while maintaining established strengths in marketing and customer
service", Mr. Yost added.
Just in time for holiday shopping, all 228 Brick stores and 7,500
employees from coast to coast are joining in on amazing national grand opening
specials that give valued customers thousands of opportunities to save, for
example - sofas starting at $299.00.
About The Brick Group
The Brick Group, together with its subsidiaries, is one of Canada's
largest volume retailers of household furniture, mattresses, appliances and
home electronics, operating under four principal banners: The Brick, United
Furniture Warehouse, The Brick Superstore and The Brick Mattress Store. In
addition, through its corporate sales division, The Brick Group services the
subdivision, condominium, and high-rise builder market. The Brick Group's
retail operations are located in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan,
Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick,
and the Yukon Territory.
For further information: Bridgette Dunphy ~ Office of Kim Yost,
President & CEO, The Brick Group, Tel: (780) 930-6047 or visit our website ~
www.thebrick.com
