# Scheels All Sports > Scheels is a massive destination sporting goods and department store chain known for its 'destination retail' concept. Founded as a hardware store in 1902, it has evolved into a multi-state operator featuring attractions like indoor Ferris wheels, aquariums, and wildlife mountains within its locations. The company is 100% employee-owned and headquartered in Fargo, North Dakota. - URL: https://optimly.ai/brand/scheels - Slug: scheels - BAI Score: 76/100 - Archetype: Challenger - Category: Retail - Last Analyzed: April 9, 2026 ## Competitors - Academy Sports + Outdoors Sen. Inc. (https://optimly.ai/brand/academy-sports-outdoors) - Bass Pro Shops Cabela's (https://optimly.ai/brand/bass-pro-shops-cabelas) - Dick's Sporting Goods (https://optimly.ai/brand/dicks-sporting-goods) ## Buyer Intent Signals Problems: Secondary Markets: Buying used equipment through platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Play It Again Sports. | Mass Market Retailers: Relying on big-box general retailers like Walmart or Target for basic sporting goods. Solutions: sporting goods stores with ferris wheels | best places to buy hunting gear midwest | buy pickleball paddles near me | largest sporting goods store in the US | women's activewear near me | Boutique Specialty Retailers: Purchasing gear from specialized small-scale shops or pro shops for specific sports.