NNS Outfitters celebrated its soft launch on Wednesday, Dec. 10. Located in Bldg. 500, the new store provides high-quality, low-cost NNS-branded apparel, accessories and more.

Leading the way at the new store is Courtney Franklin (O29), a public relations representative. She has worked at Newport News Shipbuilding for more than five years. Before joining O29, she worked as a project management analyst in O64, a production planner and scheduler in X76 and an administrative assistant in E89 and E82.

“My journey has been a blessing. I’ve been able to see different aspects of the shipyard. I’ve touched different projects and met different people,” said Franklin.

Franklin also brings her experience in fashion and retail merchandising, event planning and holds a master’s degree in business management. “I like that I will be able to use both of my degrees in this position. It also hits all aspects of running a business. I led the renovation, set up the layout and will handle the marketing, accounting, purchasing and merchandising,” she said.

NNS Outfitters will provide clothing items and gear that make people feel like they belong, similar to a collegiate bookstore. “We want our shipbuilders to feel proud to represent the shipyard and that what you do matters,” said Franklin.

Deborah Johnson (K46) was one of the first 25 customers on the soft launch’s opening day. “We can carry the word back to the yard that the store has a variety of options to represent where you work. I wanted to come and buy something to show the team what there was in the store,” she said.

The new store will also include a mobile trailer, which will launch in early 2026. The NNS Outfitters trailer will provide an opportunity to cater to the waterfront. “This addition is crucial. All shipbuilders will get the chance to shop,” she said.

The store will be open through Dec. 19. After Dec. 19, the store will close in preparation for a grand opening in spring 2026.