Homestead opens new shoppette

  • Published
  • By Tim Norton
  • 482nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HOMESTEAD AIR RESERVE BASE, Fla. --  A new consolidated Army & Air Force Exchange Service shoppette opened at Homestead Air Reserve Base on Feb. 2.

Located inside the existing base exchange, the store is an entirely new facility. Construction crews started on the project Jan. 4 working 10 hours a day, seven days a week to meet opening day goals.

"The really nice thing with this facility is it offers customers multiple services and items to purchase under one roof," said Mr. Kevin Lowans, store manager.

Mr. Lowans said the 12,500 square foot store offers a large selection of grocery products, military clothing, and a well stocked beer, wine and liquor section. A laundry and dry cleaning service is available as well.

"I am delighted that AAFES has opened the shoppette. It's something so many have been asking about and I'm very happy we were able to work with AAFES to make it happen," said Brig. Gen. William B. Binger, 482nd Fighter Wing commander. "The exchange's are such a vital part of the military and now Homestead ARB has a convenient facility to offer competitively priced items for our military, retirees and family members."

Roughly two-thirds of AAFES' earnings are paid to military Morale Welfare and Recreation programs. In the past 10 years, $2.4 billion has been contributed by AAFES to MWR programs to spend on quality of life improvements, including youth services, Armed Forces Recreation Centers, arts and crafts, aquatic centers, base/post functions and golf courses.

The Homestead ARB shoppette is open Sunday and Monday 1000-1700, Tuesday - Saturday 0900-1800 and UTA Sundays are 0900-1700. For more information on the new Shoppette or any AAFES questions, call 305-258-3881.