Largest U.S. Hockey Retailer Expands Footprint with New Store Opening in New Albany

Largest U.S. Hockey Retailer Expands Footprint with New Store Opening in New Albany…see more…

NEW ALBANY, OH — The nation’s largest hockey retailer, Pure Hockey, has officially opened a new store in New Albany, Ohio, continuing its ambitious expansion across the United States. The new location is a strategic move to meet growing demand for hockey gear and services in the Midwest and signals a renewed investment in community engagement and youth development in the region.

 

Located at the heart of one of Ohio’s most rapidly developing suburban communities, the store hosted its grand opening this past weekend, drawing hundreds of customers, youth hockey players, and local officials. With over 10,000 square feet of retail space, the New Albany location features the latest in hockey equipment, apparel, custom fitting services, and an in-store shooting lane to give customers a hands-on experience.

 

“This is an exciting day for our company,” said David Nectow, CEO of Pure Hockey. “Opening a store in New Albany gives us a foothold in a vibrant, sports-minded community. It’s not just about selling gear—it’s about growing the game and being a part of the local hockey culture.”

 

Pure Hockey, founded in 1994, has grown from a small pro shop in Worcester, Massachusetts, into the country’s largest specialty hockey retailer. With over 70 locations across the U.S., the brand has become synonymous with quality, variety, and expert-level customer service. The new New Albany store is part of the company’s 2025 expansion plan, which includes five other store openings in key hockey markets such as Minnesota, Michigan, and Pennsylvania.

 

For local hockey families and programs, the store’s arrival is being celebrated as a major milestone.

 

“Having Pure Hockey in town means everything,” said Amanda Brooks, a parent of a youth hockey player in the Columbus Chill Youth Hockey Association. “Before this, we had to drive long distances or rely on online shopping, which isn’t always ideal when you need a specific fit or immediate help.”

 

The store also features a Bauer FitLab, a cutting-edge 3D skate-fitting technology that ensures players get the right skates based on their biomechanics and foot shape. Staff at the store have been trained to offer custom solutions for players of all ages and skill levels—from beginners to elite athletes.

 

“This is where our expertise really shines,” said store manager Kevin Mahoney, who brings over 15 years of retail and coaching experience to the role. “We’re not just cashiers. We’re hockey people first. We understand what players need to perform and stay safe on the ice.”

 

In addition to retail offerings, the New Albany location plans to partner with local leagues, schools, and rinks to support community events, host gear demos, and provide sponsorships. Pure Hockey’s nationwide “Grow the Game” initiative, which includes equipment grants and mentorship for underserved hockey communities, is also expected to have a local impact.

 

City officials, including New Albany Mayor Sloan Spalding, attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony and praised the store’s commitment to local development.

 

“This is more than a store opening,” Spalding said. “It’s a signal that New Albany is growing as a hub for families, youth sports, and retail investment. We welcome Pure Hockey with open arms and look forward to the contributions they will make in our community.”

 

The opening comes at a time when hockey participation is on the rise across the U.S. According to USA Hockey, youth hockey registration saw a 6% increase nationally in 2024, with Ohio posting one of its strongest growth years in the last decade. Factors like the Columbus Blue Jackets’ presence, new rink developments, and expanded school programs have helped fuel the sport’s momentum.

 

“Hockey is no longer just a northern or Canadian sport,” said Steve Adams, director of the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s hockey division. “With brands like Pure Hockey investing in our communities, we’re seeing more kids take the ice, more programs flourish, and more pathways open to collegiate and even professional play.”

 

Pure Hockey’s arrival also benefits adult recreational leagues, goalie-specific programs, and even figure skaters who need shared equipment like sharpening and protective gear.

 

For area high school teams, such as the New Albany Eagles, having a dedicated hockey retailer in town could be a game-changer. Head coach Tyler Dean noted that access to proper gear and services has a direct impact on performance and safety.

 

“Having a place where players can get custom-fitted skates, sharpened blades, and expert advice—within minutes of our rink—makes a big difference,” Dean said. “It’s the kind of support that allows teams to elevate their game.”

 

To celebrate the store opening, Pure Hockey is offering exclusive promotions, giveaways, and equipment trials throughout the month of July. Brand representatives from CCM, Bauer, Warrior, and True Hockey are expected to make appearances for live demos and product showcases.

 

Looking ahead, Pure Hockey’s leadership believes the New Albany location could serve as a model for future suburban retail expansions. The store’s integration of tech, community outreach, and education is part of a broader shift in how the brand approaches growth.

 

“We’re not looking to be just a place to buy sticks and skates,” said Nectow. “We want to be a cornerstone of hockey in every city we operate in.”

 

With its strategic location, modern facilities, and commitment to grassroots development, the new Pure Hockey store in New Albany is poised to become just that—a local cornerston

e in America’s growing hockey landscape.