Also announces sale of Rapid City, S.D., store
BILLINGS, Mont. — Top 100 contender Conlin’s Furniture

said it will expand into new markets to grow its business, but provided few details about the plan.

It also said it has sold its Rapid City, S.D., store and will close there at the end of February.

The midpriced chain with 17 stores in Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming said the “anticipated launch into the new regional market is part of the company’s business plan to increase and improve their current offerings.” The sale of the Rapid City property was part of the preparation for this launch.

Conlin’s did not disclose terms of the deal.

“Our overall strategic plan is to make the company a larger and more efficient business and with our current geography and high energy costs it just makes sense for us to focus on growth in more northern markets,” said CEO Joe Conlin in a release.

“At the same time we would like to express our sincere appreciation to our internal and external supporters in the Rapid City area that have allowed us to serve them.”

The company said details on the expansion plan will be announced later.

Furniture/Today estimated Conlin’s sales at $48 million in 2012.