Tractor Supply Co., the nation’s largest farm and ranch store chain, is holding interviews this week to hire employees for the company’s new store in Andalusia.

The interviews are taking place at the Chamber of Commerce building on the west bypass, today through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The store is slated to open sometime in early March.

Monday afternoon, store manager Gary Arsenault said approximately 70 applicants had already interviewed on the first day.

“We’ve seen a really good turnout,” Arsenault said. “It’s been a good mix of young and old, and nearly everyone who’s come through has told us how excited they are that Tractor Supply is coming to town.”

Arsenault said the store expects to hire about 20 employees. Interviews this week are for the positions of team leaders, team members and receivers, and are open to anyone who applies.

“We’re looking for anybody who has experience in sales, farming, agriculture,” Arsenault said. “Tractor Supply will also provide training for those who are not qualified.”

Arsenault said the store will receive products throughout the month of February, and be ready for an open house Fri., Feb. 27. The open house, which will be for invited guests and public dignitaries, will be followed by a “soft opening” Sat., Feb. 28.

Arsenault said no grand opening date has been officially set, but it will be sometime in March.

“Tractor Supply is very excited about being in this community and we will do everything we can to support the community,” he said. “We are looking forward to offering outstanding service to the people of this area.”