The Great Northern Express Company has announced plans to expand its operations in Grand Forks, following a remarkable surge in business. In 1899, the company nearly doubled its revenue in the city, prompting a decision to relocate its office to a more spacious and efficient location in the coming spring.
In a recent conversation with a representative from the Great Northern Express Company, it was revealed that the office has experienced significant growth in its business since January. For instance, the receipts for July 1899 reached $7,168.00, compared to $4,718.00 in the same month the previous year. This increase reflects a strong and healthy business climate in the region, underscoring the company’s importance within the local economy.
Plans for Relocation and Enhanced Service
The Grand Forks office is regarded as one of the best on the Great Northern system, especially considering the city’s size. Currently, the office operates with only two delivery wagons, a number that remains unchanged despite the substantial increase in business volume. As a result, the service has faced challenges during peak times. To improve customer satisfaction, the company plans to add an additional wagon in the spring, enhancing its capacity to meet growing demand.
The current lease for the office, situated next to the St. John’s block, will expire in May. The company is exploring options for a new location, with a potential site being a building owned by Captain Powers, adjacent to Stanchfield’s clothing store on Third Street. If this site is chosen, both ticket and express services may be consolidated into a single, upgraded facility.
Anticipated Improvements and Modernization
Should the relocation occur, the Great Northern Express Company intends to invest in new fixtures and amenities, transforming the office into one of the finest on its route. This move is seen as justifiable given the significant volume of business in Grand Forks, which has grown increasingly important to the company’s overall operations. The current office conditions, particularly during the harsh winter months, have been deemed inadequate, making the planned transition even more critical.
As the company prepares for this expansion, it is clear that the increasing demand for its services highlights the robust economic environment in Grand Forks. The anticipated upgrades are expected to enhance both efficiency and customer experience, solidifying the Great Northern Express Company’s position as a key player in the local market.
