FOLEY, Ala. — With a line of customers that stretched all the way to the front door of its neighbor, Hobby Lobby, Big Lots officially opened its doors Friday morning.

“I think it’s terrific,” said Big Lots Regional Team Manager Bill Coney. “We’re excited to be here.”

The Foley grand opening included a ribbon cutting and check presentation of $1,599 to Foley High School.

“We make a donation to a local school with all of our grand openings,” Coney said.

Foley High School Principal Shane Tucker said the school’s proximity to the Foley Big Lots location helped the retail store select FHS for the contribution.

“This is where geography paid off,” he said.

Once the Big Lots doors opened, Big Lots customers were treated to free thermoses, baseball caps and refreshments, as well as the chance to register for door prizes.

Foley city leaders and Police were both on hand for the occasion.

Foley Mayor John Koniar pointed out several benefits to the retail addition, especially to area consumers.

“Obviously it’s going to save people on gas,” he said. “Now they don’t have to drive to Pensacola and Mobile to go to Big Lots.”

“Which is an amenity unto itself,” Foley Councilman Ralph Hellmich added

Big Lots is part of McKenzie Plaza, a two-store facility situated next to Lowe’s off County Road 20 and South McKenzie Street in Foley. Coney said the store will employs approximately 45 associates. Work on the 21,843-square-foot store began about six months ago.

Hobby Lobby held its own grand opening last week. Hellmich projected that Shoe Station should open near McKenzie Plaza in the spring.

“There’s always room for growth,” said Baldwin County Commissioner Skip Gruber.