Roses retail store set to move in to the Showplace location - NBC12.com - Richmond, VA News

The Showplace on Mechanicsville Turnpike will no longer host gun shows and other events. That's because a Roses retail store is moving in.  

The Showplace has been known for its popular gun shows, art shows, and yard sales over the past 25 years - now, they'll have to find a new place to go. One gun show organizer said he's seen it coming for quite some time.

"I think it will be a positive thing for that part of town," said Showplace Manager, Bill Crenshaw. 

Crenshaw says eastern Henrico is a perfect location for the customers Roses will serve. The number of events at the Showplace has gone down over the past few years, so this long-term lease agreement is a win-win for both him and the retail store, known for its value prices.  

"You have discount, big department store there - call it inner city - that people can get to," Crenshaw said.

The closest Kmart or Walmart is miles away. The last gun show at the exhibition hall was over the weekend. Steve Elliot, with C & E Gun Shows says, right now, RIR is the only place for dealers and customers to go. Many went to the Showplace because they simply liked the location.

"There's a lot of truth to that," said Elliot. "I'll be honest with you - a lot of the dealers cross over and they do both. RIR is going to be the only game in town until we locate something else, so if anybody wants to do a show in Richmond, it's going to be at the raceway."

C & E Gun Shows is looking at a couple of other locations in Richmond to hold shows, but nothing is set in stone.

A spokesperson with Roses said the new store will bring 50 jobs to the area, and it's in negotiations to open another location in south Richmond.

The manager of the Showplace said the Roses should be up and running this summer.

The Showplace will continue with events planned through mid-April.

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