I recently stumbled on this site after hearing a rumor the Hamburg store was closing.
I'd been a Cabela's customer long before the Hamburg store opened. I attended the soft as well as the Grand Openings. When my kids were young, I used to take them to the Hamburg store for family outings.
All of my family's outdoor clothing was bought at the Hamburg store. Most of my fishing tackle, and hunting equipment was purchased there. I was a club card holder for many years and used my points every Christmas season at Hamburg.
When I retired from my full time job, I got a job at Cabela's Hamburg. It had its ups and downs; what retail doesn't?
The scheduling was a challenge, the pay was not great, but I had fun most days.
There were bad managers, mean managers, good managers and a couple of great managers. Almost all of the hourly people were fun, friendly and knew their products. I made lasting friendships with many of the people I worked with while I was employed by them.
There was always an element of drama and rumors flying around, but that happens anywhere where there is more than one person involved.
For a little historical context: In 2001 Cabela's catalog was the third most popular catalog just behind J.C. Penny and Sears, and we all know what happened to those two companies.
Whenever I get a chance to stop in the store I do and enjoy it very much. Most Outfitters appear to still be happy, but worried about the future.
To me, it sounds like corporate greed may be ruining what was once the benchmark for a family friendly outdoor shopping experience.