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SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE - It was more than blind luck the new Shoppers Drug Mart location on 49 Street opened on time last week, according to co-owner Daryl Dolynny.

"I had skilled employees and a good team working behind me to make our goals a reality," said Dolynny.

Shoppers Drug Mart owners Daryl and Cindy Dolynny stand in front of their new location on 49 Street. The store's grand opening took place on Saturday. - Ben Morgan / NNSL photo

He said they were determined to open on schedule and building the new location downtown was an important part of his vision.

"We were able to keep a strong economic engine within the central business core," he said. "I think people are glad that we kept the store here."

In the days leading up to the grand opening, Dolynny said people were pressing their hands against the windows sneaking peaks of the space in anticipation of the grand opening.

"Most of the hand prints on the windows were beside the cosmetics area," he said, "I think our customers are really going to enjoy that section."

On Thursday evening a group of invited guests arrived at the store on a red carpet for an exclusive preview.

"When I walked into the store and saw the new cosmetics department, I thought it was like something you see in the big cities," said Merril Dean.

She said the store had a very modern feel to it.

"It's a beautiful space," she said. "Now you won't have to wait to buy those things you really want on trips down south."

Cosmetics manager Ashley Zwicker York said her department has increased its prestigious product lines from two brands to nine.

"I know people are going to love the luxury of choice that we have in our selection now," she said.

Zwicker York said customers can count on getting more for their money than quality products.

"We have a system here where we can keep track of what our customers are buying - what works best with their skin - so that we can tell them about upcoming sales and special products that might interest them.

"It's like a patient file but for your face."

Dolynny said for years, Shoppers Drug Mart has been looking after the inner health of Yellowknifers.

"I think now, with the new cosmetics boutique, we're definitely looking after your outer beauty as well," he said.

But expanding product selection isn't reserved to the cosmetic department. The new Shoppers Drug Mart has expanded in almost every department. The post office and pharmacy have enlarged operations and digital photo kiosks are available to process pictures for customers. There is now a passport service at the store and a confectionery section as well.

Dolynny said people will now be able to purchase a broad range of staple foods like milk, cheese, breads, processed meat and frozen foods at the store.

He thanked customers for their patience as they made the transition into the new location. He said customers were very understanding as they moved ahead with the operation.

"I think people knew we were committed to opening the new location on time - we did that and with a wider and broader base of products for them to choose from, too."

He said there are products now at the new location that aren't available anywhere else in Yellowknife.

"The company has been operating in the old space for almost 20 years. We've been there for around 17 of those years, so it's a big change for us and an exciting time for everyone."