Mark’s Outdoors, the family-owned hunting, fishing and outdoor retailer that has served Birmingham since 1980, is officially changing hands. According to a press release, Day 21, LLC has acquired the iconic business on Highway 31 and plans to maintain the store’s tradition of personalized service, quality products and commitment to customers.

About Mark’s Outdoors

Founded in 1980 by Mark Whitlock Sr. and his father, Mo, Mark’s Outdoors is a popular and beloved outdoor retailer located at 1400 Montgomery Highway in Vestavia Hills. Known for its personalized, welcoming atmosphere for both regulars and newcomers alike, Mark’s Outdoors has grown from a small bait-and-tackle shop to a trusted destination for all things outdoors, including:

New and used firearms
Ammunition
Archery equipment
Fishing gear
Hunting accessories
Camping supplies
Outdoor clothing
Knives
Optics
And more

After Mark Sr. passed in 2012, Mark’s Outdoors moved into the hands of Mark Sr.’s wife, Dana and his son, Mark Jr.

Mark’s Outdoors acquired by Day 21, LLC

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On January 28, Day 21, LLC announced in a press release that it had acquired the iconic outdoor retailer in Vestavia Hills.

“For over 45 years, Mark’s Outdoors has been more than a store—it’s been a family tradition for so many in our community, built on passion for the outdoors, unwavering customer care, and a welcoming spirit that feels like home. We are deeply honored to step in as the next stewards of this legacy. This isn’t about change; it’s about carrying forward a true Alabama family business into our family, investing in its future so that the same expertise, warmth, and outdoor camaraderie continue to bring people together for generations to come.”
Russell Watts, CEO, Day 21, LLC

According to the press release, Day 21, LLC will continue to operate the business under the Mark’s Outdoors name and plans to maintain the personalized service, quality products and commitment to customers while investing in enhanced inventory, resources and future growth.

“Mark’s Outdoors began as a lifelong dream of Mark Whitlock Sr., who built it from a small shop focused on customer service to the thriving business you see today. Mark Sr. passed away in 2012 and left the store under the care of his wife Dana. Dana, along with their children Mark Whitlock Jr. and Shelly Whitlock Smith, and their spouses Lindsey and Ron, continued that legacy for years to come. The Whitlock family thanks all of our loyal customers and employees for the support for these 45+ years. We wish the Watts family all the best and we look forward to their continued success for many years!”
The Whitlock Family

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