Lowe’s: now in 50 states

Lowe’s officially opened the doors yesterday of its first Vermont store,in the city of Burlington, marking the retailer’s entry into all 50 U.S. states.

Spokeswoman Maureen Rich told the local newspaper Burlington Free Press that the retailer planned to hold off on a proper grand opening celebration until the spring, because of winter weather. “We’re very excited with this expansion. This is a milestone for Lowe’s,” she told the newspaper. Calls to Lowe’s for a follow-up comment were not immediately returned.

Preceding the formal opening, the store held a soft opening for commercial customers only. The Lowe’s store had been in the works for several years, having been delayed by stormwater runoff concerns and other permit issues, according to news reports.

The Burlington store will not remain the only Lowe’s store in the state for long. The retailer is seeking permits for further stores in Essex, Vt., and St. Albans Town, Vt.

Home Depot has a larger presence in Vermont -- currently, the retailer has four locations in the state.

Mooresville, N.C.-based Lowe’s operates more than 1,450 stores in the United States and Canada.