Bass Pro still interested in Memphis project

The Memphis Commercial Appeal last Friday reported that the Springfield-based outdoor gear retailer could sign an agreement to open a store in the unique venue as early as that day. Today, however, the paper reports the city’s Pyramid negotiating committee is still awaiting a signed agreement to review.

“I’m convinced this is moving forward, and Bass Pro is betting on Memphis,” the city’s arena reuse project manager Robert Lipscomb told the paper. “It’s a little bit more of a wait, but it won’t take much longer.”

Bass Pro spokesman Larry Whiteley couldn’t say when officials could sign the deal, but he confirmed to Springfield Business Journal that they are still very interested in the Memphis project.

The agreement would legally bind Bass Pro to the project; it stipulates that the retailer will pay a monthly facility rental fee, and, if Bass Pro walks away from the project, it will pay a $500,000 penalty, according to Commercial Appeal reports.