The Dealmakers Issue Number 36 for the week of October 13, 1995.

 

My Way by Ted Kraus

 

We're Here... Now Tell Me Why

 

Well, we are here in the land of Oz; why I'm not quite sure, but supposedly we're in Kansas City to do deals, so if you can't find a wonderful wizard of dealmaking to do a deal with, drop by our booth at 2 Post Oak, we'll probably have lots of time available.  I am not, to say the least, overly optimistic about this show, but with a little bit of luck, I'll be wrong.  It won't be the first time.

 

I'm not trying to be a wiseguy and this is not meant as a knock towards the ICSC, they put on a great show, in fact my only complaint with them is they do too good a job on the local shows.  Their people work hard at minimizing problems and putting together a first class event (and if Josh decides to have a Bar Mitzvah, I want them to cater it); most other trade organizations are jealous of the quality, profitability and attendance that these shows have and I'm not talking just about Vegas or the October DealMaking, even the "local" shows are extremely well done.  I'm not  pessimistic about this show because of the economy either, which while not good, is not bad.  I'm "down" on it because "we" (since the ICSC is ours, I can say we) just had the Chicago show, a New York show, the Atlanta show and the Palm Desert, California show.  The ones we attended were productive and well worth the time and money spent.  The problem I see with Kansas City is, "How many shows in such a short period of time can people attend and justify?" (And not be burned out).  The local events are now so well attended and productive that many companies have elected not to attend Kansas City.  Since this show is a profit center for the ICSC, we probably won't or can't get rid of it in the foreseeable future, but Ann had a good idea that I'm throwing out as a way to improve traffic.  Continue to have the National Show in October (but at the beginning of the month) and have the "locals" that are held in August and September at the end of  October and beginning of November instead.  Not a major change, but I'd be willing to bet that would increase traffic at this show by 15 to 20%.  Some of the local events might drop slightly in attendance, but the long term benefits for all of us would be worthwhile.  If companies/individuals had a few months of "blackouts" before this how, by the time October came around, the "dealmaking" addicts would be forced to attend the National Show.

 

Now hopefully I'm wrong, and this show will be great, but I don't think that's how the smart money will bet.  On the other hand, if you're not attending the show, I think you're making a mistake also.  This is still the second best attended shopping center show of the year and thousands of the nation's top dealmakers will be here.  Yes, Vegas was excellent, and yes, the local dealmaking shows are extremely productive, but if the shopping center industry is how you eat, you're being dumb for not attending (smart people do stupid things).

 

On a different topic, how bad can a bad management company be?  Really bad is the answer.  (Bad management companies shouldn't be allowed to attend Kansas City.  They're not dealmakers, they're deal killers.  There should a National Deal Killer Show just for them and lawyers.)  A friend of mine just told me about a situation in which he was involved.  It seems his company was interested in buying a center, so he went out to look at it before making an offer (who says investors are stupid).  The center they were interested in acquiring had a number of vacancies, so to determine "market rental rates," he called up the center next door that also had vacancies, said he was a retailer and asked questions regarding availability and rent.  The management company couldn't quote rents, they had to first call the owner and he gave a rental number each time a potential tenant inquired (I guess he was looking for divine intervention).  My friend next asked about CAM charges and taxes; they didn't know.  He asked about TI; they didn't know.  He asked how the other stores in the center were doing; they didn't know (at least they didn't lie and say "good").  He asked for demographics; they didn't have any.  He asked for traffic counts; again the answer was "we don't know.".  How can a company be responsible for a center and not know all its details?  Since the property my friend was looking at was "owned" by a bank, it was safe to assume that the center had been poorly managed, when combined with an incompetent competitor next door, he felt comfortable that his organization could turn the property around.  His only concern was if the management company in the competing center was replaced with someone competent, then he'd have real competition, and it would take longer to turn the property around.  I guess that the only good thing to say about incompetent management companies is they're great for business as long as they're your competitors.

 

If I had one wish granted to me, I think I'd turn all developers and retailers into brokers for a year.  There's a leasing agent at a development firm I've been dealing with for years.  He tended to be a real SOB, didn't return phone calls and was extremely arrogant (but I made money off of him so you *dowhat you have to do.  About two months ago his company "downsized" and he was part of the down.  He decided to go into brokerage and make real money, hell, anyone can make a few phone calls and cash a commission check for $100,000.  (It's remarkable how many friends I have when people need me.  One person who I despised starting calling me everyday and offered to take me out to lunch, dinner or whatever when he needed a job.  The minute he found one, I never heard from him again, thank god.)  My "new good friend" was willing to co-broker with me, "share" information or whatever he could do to "help" me.  It seems that now that he doesn't have the great centers to lease like he had before, retailers are not returning his calls, brokers aren't as tolerant as they used to be and his "friends" don't appear to be as friendly.  I'm sure that in the next six months he will become a humbler, nicer human being, but I'm also willing to bet that if he ever gets a job with a decent developer, he'll become the same SOB again.  The same is true for many retailers.  It's a shame those idiots have such a short attention span.

 

Talking about brokers, a friend of mine sent the following comments he just received from his attorney on a lease they're negotiating.  While I'm a great believer in brokers, (and I am not broker bashing, that's how I eat), too many brokers just don't bring any "value" to the deal.  If the broker doesn't earn his "keep," then everyone loses.  It seems this tenant had looked at the property in the past, but when it came time to do the deal, he brought in a broker.  Here's the lawyer's thoughts:

 

Lease comments - Broker fees

 

The cost of the commission was an unwarranted burden resulting from Tenant's unwillingness to pursue its own search of suitable premises with due diligence and to rely on a broker who added nothing to the deal except extra cost.  Landlord's "For Rent" signs were prominent and no real estate broker's signs have been on premises for many months.  Furthermore, the Tenant had inquired about the premises prior to the inspection of a broker.  The retailer lives nearby and had been aware of the availability in the area, particularly this one because of its proximity to his home.  Without brokerage commission, the rent could have been adjusted downward to the Tenant's benefit.

 

Now that the die is cast, the commission must be paid.  Unfortunately, the broker expects almost instant gratification, that is, payment in a relatively short period of time subsequent to signing of a lease.  If  broker can be convinced to lengthen the period of payment to perhaps 36 months, we might consider dropping the commission sharing article which was inserted merely to recover a portion of this burden should Tenant terminate for whatever cause.  Alternatively, Tenant can elect to pay commission itself and we would make adjustment in rental accordingly.  Tenant did choose to use a broker -- we didn't.  Tenant should also be aware that there is no such thing as a free lunch any longer, not that there ever really was".

 

Well, since there are no free lunches, lets all go out and work to make that deal happen.

 

P.S.  I disagree with their objection to paying the broker quickly in the above comments, if I wanted an annuity, I'd buy one.  Brokers are like any contractor; do you pay your electrician over 36 months?

 

 

Apparel Tenants Shop for New Locations

 

Am-Pat, Inc. trades as Boot Barn at 13 locations in CA.  The western wear stores occupy spaces of 7,500 sq.ft. to 10,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities.  Preferred anchors include Home Depot and HomeBase.  Plans call for as many as four openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in CA and UT.  Preferred demographics include a population of 250,000 within 10 miles.  Leases running five years are typical.  The 17-year-old company requires a vanilla shell.

  For more information, contact Ken Meany, Am-Pat, Inc., 1031 Segovia Circle, Placentia, CA 92670; 714-575-5115, Fax 575-5117.

 

Realta operates one location in IL.  The high-end men's wear store occupies a 2,400 sq.ft. space in a specialty center.  Plans call for as many as three openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing market.

  For more information, contact Walter Payton, Realta, 300 North Martingale Road #340, Schaumburg, IL 60173; 708-605-0034, Fax 605-0053.

 

Hyman Family, LP trades as Susie's Deals at 50 locations in AZ, CA and NV.  The stores, carrying missy and junior lines, occupy spaces of 2,100 sq.ft. to 3,000 sq.ft. in power and strip centers.  Plans call for 10 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will focus on Central and Northern CA, with fill in throughout Southern CA.

  For more information, contact Gail Jeffrey, Hyman Family, LP, 1115 John Reed Court, City of Industry, CA 91745; 818-369-9881, Fax 961-4228.

 

Howard & Phil Enterprises, Inc. does business as Howard & Phil's Western Wear at 54 locations in CA, NV and UT.  The western-style apparel stores occupy spaces of 3,000 sq.ft. to 5,000 sq.ft. in regional malls and specialty centers.  Plans call for as many as 10 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing markets, and the company is looking for 3,000 sq.ft. spaces in regional malls.

  For more information, contact John McKeon, Howard & Phil Enterprises, Inc., 19415 Soledad Canyon Road, Canyon Country, CA 91351; 805-252-8931, Fax 252-0949.

 

J.P. Todds, Inc. trades as J.P. Todds, Sebastians, N. Valentinos and Jordan Windsor at eight locations in KS and MO.  The men's apparel stores occupy spaces of 3,000 sq.ft. to 4,000 sq.ft. in downtown store fronts, freestanding facilities and regional malls.  Plans call for two openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing market.

  For more information, contact Maurice Jerwick, J.P. Todds, Inc., 9012 Cody, Overland Park, KS 66214; 913-492-4050, Fax 492-5875.

 

J. Harris, Inc. trades as J. Harris at 24 locations in AZ, OK, LA, TN and TX.  The women's apparel stores occupy spaces of 1,500 sq.ft. to 1,800 sq.ft. in power centers and regional malls.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing markets as well as the contiguous states.

  For more information, contact Mr. Harris, J. Harris, Inc., 116 East Huntland Drive, Austin, TX 78752; 512-327-7915, Fax 452-9056.

 

Jimmy Karan's, Inc. trades as Jimmy Karan's at 28 locations in AR.  The men's apparel stores occupy spaces of 2,500 sq.ft. to 7,500 sq.ft. in regional malls and strip centers.  Plans call for eight openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in TN and TX.

  For more information, contact James Karan, Jimmy Karan's, Inc., 609 Main Street, Little Rock, AR 72201; 501-372-2172.

 

Wyckoff Kids Apparel, Inc. trades as Kids Stuff at four locations in NJ.  The children's apparel stores occupy spaces of 5,000 sq.ft. in strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing market.

  For more information, contact Frank Arone, Wyckoff Kids Apparel, Inc., 325 Franklin Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ 07481; 201-891-5900, Fax 891-6611.

 

Strouse and Brothers does business as Mailliard's at six locations in KS, IN and IL.  The men's apparel stores occupy spaces of 2,000 sq.ft. to 7,500 sq.ft. in specialty centers.  Plans call for as many as two openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place within the existing markets.

  For more information, contact Scott Strouse, Strouse and Brothers, PO Box 927, Evansville, IN 47706; 812-428-7653, Fax 428-7673.

 

Hot Topic, Inc. trades as Hot Topic at 35 locations in AZ, CA, NV, OR, WA, MN, IL, NY, PA and MA.  The women's apparel stores occupy spaces of 1,200 sq.ft. to 1,500 sq.ft. in regional malls.  Growth opportunities are sought in CA, AZ, NV, WA, OR, CO, VT, WI, IL, IN, OH, PA, NJ, NY, MD, VA, NH, CT and MA.  Leases running 10 years are typical.

  For more information, contact Marc Bertone, Hot Topic, Inc., 3410 Pomona Boulevard, Pomona, CA 91766; 909-869-6373, Fax 869-6374.

 

Edison Brothers, Inc. trades as Repp, Ltd. at 160 locations nationwide.  The stores, specializing in apparel for big and tall men, occupy spaces of 3,000 sq.ft. in strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought nationwide.

  For more information, contact Mark Brown, Edison Brothers, Inc., 501 North Broadway, St. Louis, MO 63102; 314-331-6580, Fax 331-7200.

 

Burlington Coat Factory Warehouse trades as Baby Depot at four locations in PA, TX, NJ and NY.  The stores, selling children's apparel as well as soft and hard goods for children, occupy spaces of 25,000 sq.ft. to 40,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities, regional malls, power, specialty and strip centers.  Plans call for five openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place nationwide.

  For more information, contact Mrs. Lee Kilcollum, Burlington Coat Factory Warehouse, 1830 Route 130 North, Burlington, NJ 08016; 609-387-7800.

 

Bernini, Inc. trades as Bernini at 30 locations in CA, NV, CO, GA, FL, NJ and NY.  The stores, selling upper-end men's and women's apparel as well as leather goods, occupy spaces of 3,000 sq.ft. in downtown store fronts, freestanding facilities and regional malls.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing markets.

  For more information, contact Yousef Tarr, Bernini, Inc., 10401 Venice Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90034; 800-237-6464, Fax 310-842-7860.

 

Kriss-Kros operates one location in CA.  The family apparel store occupies a 2,000 sq.ft. space in a downtown store front.  Growth opportunities are sought in downtown Los Angeles, CA.  The store caters to a low-middle to middle income consumer.

  For more information, contact Fred Sedaka, Kriss-Kros, 1334 South Los Angeles Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015; 213-749-4041, Fax 745-7532.

 

Jones Apparel Group, Inc. trades as Jones New York Factory Stores at 162 locations nationwide.  The women's apparel stores occupy spaces of 2,200 sq.ft. to 5,000 sq.ft. in outlet centers.  Plans call for 25 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place nationwide.  Leases running five to 10 years are typical.

  For more information, contact Jennifer Matts, Jones Apparel Group, Inc., 19 Spear Road/ Suite 201, Ramsey, NJ 07446; 201-327-5210, Fax 327-6316.

 

Miller International trades as Miller Stockman at 36 locations in CA, CO, NV and UT.  The family western apparel stores occupy spaces of 4,000 sq.ft. to 5,000 sq.ft. in downtown store fronts, power centers and regional malls.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing markets.

  For more information, contact Chuck Winter, Miller International, 8500 Zuni Street, Denver, CO 80221; 303-428-5696, Ext. 386, Fax 430-1130.

 

G&G Shops, Inc. trades as G&G and Rave at 500 locations nationwide.  The apparel stores, carrying junior and missy lines, occupy spaces of 2,000 sq.ft. to 2,500 sq.ft. in regional malls.  Plans call for 15 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place nationwide.  Leases running 10 years are typical.

  For more information, contact Richard Rubino, G&G Shops, Inc., 520 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10018; 212-279-4961, Fax 714-1680.

 

Gary's Tux Shop operates 65 locations in CA and NV.  The formalwear stores occupy spaces of 850 sq.ft. in downtown store fronts, regional malls and strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in CA.

  For more information, contact Angela Devon, Gary's Tux Shop, 6711 Odessa Avenue, Van Nuys, CA 91406; 818-997-0711, Fax 787-7829.

 

Hub Distributors, Inc. trades as Miller's Outpost at 250 locations in AZ, CA, NM, NV and UT.  The stores, carrying junior and men's clothing, occupy spaces of 6,000 sq.ft. to 10,000 sq.ft. in strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in AZ, CA and NV.

  For more information, contact John Burgess, Hub Distributors, Inc., 2501 East Guasti Road, Ontario, CA 91761; 909-988-6431, Fax 984-2176.

 

AIJJ Enterprises trades as Foxmoor, Ups-N-Down, Caren Charles, Rainbow Shop and Rainbow Kids at more than 600 locations nationwide.  The apparel stores occupy spaces of 1,800 sq.ft. to 10,000 sq.ft. in downtown store fronts, regional malls and strip centers.  Plans call for 60 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place nationwide.

  For more information, contact Andre Nikol, AIJJ Enterprises, 1000 Pennsylvania Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11207; 718-485-3000, Fax 485-3807.

 

Alexon operates 30 locations in CA, as well as throughout the Northeastern and Midwestern states.  The apparel stores, selling bridge sportswear, occupy spaces of 1,200 sq.ft. in regional malls.  Preferred anchors include upscale department stores.  Growth opportunities are sought in the Southwestern and Northeastern regions.  Preferred demographics include a population of 500,000 within seven miles earning $50,000 as the average income.  Leases running three to 10 years are typical.  The 12-year-old company caters to an affluent clientele and cites Jaegar as competition.

  For more information, contact Linda M. Reed, Alexon, 11372 Brill Drive, Studio City, CA 91604-3103; 818-763-9862, Fax 763-0231.

 

Simply Fashion Stores, Inc. trades as Simply Fashions at 190 locations nationwide.  The women's apparel stores occupy spaces of 2,800 sq.ft. in strip centers.  Plans call for 50 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place nationwide, exclusive of the Pacific and Northwest regions.  Preferred demographics include a population of 50,000 within three miles.  Leases running five years are typical.

  For more information, contact Rick Rogers, Simply Fashions Stores, Inc., PO Box 188, Birmingham, AL 35201-0188; 205-951-1700, Fax 951-1510.

 

Harve Bernard Ltd. trades as Harve Bernard at 35 locations nationwide.  The men's and women's apparel stores occupy spaces of 3,000 sq.ft. in outlet centers.  Growth opportunities are sought nationwide.

  For more information, contact Len Katz, Harve Bernard Ltd., 225 Meadowlands Parkway, Secaucus, NJ 07096; 201-319-0909, Fax 865-7031.

 

Great Pacific Iron Works trades as Patagonia at 13 locations in CA, WA, MT, HI, NY, MA, GA, ME, UT and CO.  The men's and women's sports apparel stores occupy spaces of 2,000 sq.ft. to 8,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities.  Plans call for the opening of four units in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place nationwide.  Leases running five years are typical.

  For more information, contact Peter Noone, Great Pacific Iron Works, 259 West Santa Clara Street, Ventura, CA 93001; 805-643-8616, Fax 653-6355.

 

Copper Rivet, Inc. trades as Copper Rivet at 13 locations in AZ, CO and UT.  The stores, selling apparel for young adults, occupy spaces of 2,500 sq.ft. to 4,000 sq.ft. in regional malls.  Plans call for three openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in ID and CO.  Preferred demographics include a population of 100,000 within 20 miles earning $40,000 as the average income.  The company cites Nordstrom's and The Gap as competition.

  For more information, contact John Morton, Copper Rivet, Inc., 29 West 800 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84101; 801-521-0667, Fax 521-2040.

 

Frederick's of Hollywood Stores, Inc. trades as Frederick's of Hollywood at 210 locations nationwide.  The specialty apparel stores occupy spaces of 1,500 sq.ft. to 2,000 sq.ft. in regional malls.  Plans call for 20 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place nationwide and in Puerto Rico.  Preferred demographics include a population of 300,000 within seven miles earning $38,000 as the average income.  Leases running 10 years are typical.

  For more information, contact Nancy Scott, Frederick's of Hollywood Stores, Inc., 6608 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028; 213-466-5151, Fax 464-5149.

 

Gantos, Inc. trades as Gantos at 113 locations in CA, CO, CT, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, RI, TN, VA and WI.  The women's apparel and accessories stores occupy spaces of 5,000 sq.ft. to 7,500 sq.ft. in regional malls.  Preferred anchors include moderate to better price point department stores.  Plans call for six openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place nationwide.

  For more information, contact Kenneth Green, Gantos, Inc., 3260 Patterson Avenue S.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49588; 619-949-7000, Fax 949-5884.

 

Styles For Less operates 52 locations in CA.  The junior's apparel stores occupy spaces of 3,000 sq.ft. in regional malls.  Preferred anchors include Lord & Taylor.  Plans call for six openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing market.  Preferred demographics include a population of 150,000 within three miles earning $45,000 as the average income.  The two-year-old company cites Clothestime and Wet Seal as competitors.

  For more information, contact Bob Pratt, Styles For Less, c/o R.L. Pratt Associates, 123 Washington Boulevard P.H., Marina Del Ray, CA 90292; 310-577-1414, Fax 577-1415.

 

Bachrach Clothing, Inc. trades as Bachrach at 77 locations in CA, IL, IN, IA, MI, MN, KY, MO, NE, OK, PA, TN, WI, OH, GA, KS and AR.  The men's apparel stores occupy spaces of 5,000 sq.ft. in regional malls.  Plans call for 15 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place nationwide.  Leases running 10 years are typical.  The 118-year-old company will consider malls with sales of at least $375 per sq.ft.

  For more information, contact Jim Heffernan, Bachrach Clothing, Inc., One Bachrach Court, Decatur, IL 62526; 217-875-1020, Fax 875-0030.

 

Swim-N-Sport Shops, Inc. trades as Swim-N-Sport Shops at 14 locations in FL and LA.  The women's swim and sportswear stores occupy spaces of 1,500 sq.ft. to 2,500 sq.ft. in regional malls, outlet and specialty centers.  Preferred anchors include Lord & Taylor.  Plans call for 20 openings in the coming five years.  Expansion will take place nationwide, excluding FL.  Leases running eight to 10 years are typical.

  For more information, contact Mark Sidel, Swim-N-Sport Shops, Inc., 2396 N.W. 96th Avenue, Miami, FL 33172; 305-593-5071, Fax 593-2669.

 

Tao Te, Inc. trades as Earth Origins at four locations in NM and TX.  The casual apparel and shoe stores occupy spaces of 1,100 sq.ft. to 1,500 sq.ft. in regional malls.  While catering to affluent females, the company's preferred anchors include Eddie Bauer.  Plans call for two openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in AZ and TX.  Leases running 10 to 15 years are typical.  The 20-year-old company prefers a vanilla shell.

  For more information, contact John Rounds, Tao Te, Inc., 2100 Louisiana N.E., Albuquerque, NM 87110; 505-255-5000, Fax 889-2996.

 

Buffalo Exchange operates 13 locations in AZ, CA, NM, NV and WA.  The stores, which sell new and used clothing for adults, occupy spaces of 2,000 sq.ft. to 4,500 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in TX, UT, NM, CA, WA and OR.  Preferred demographics include a population of 600,000 within 10 miles.  Leases running three years with options are typical.

  For more information, contact Kathy Picket, Buffalo Exchange, PO Box 40488, Tucson, AZ 85717; 520-622-2711, Fax 622-7015.

 

Drapers & Damons, Inc. trades as Drapers and Damons at 22 locations in AZ and CA.  The women's ready-to-wear stores occupy spaces of 3,000 sq.ft. to 4,000 sq.ft. in strip centers.  Preferred anchors include supermarkets.  Plans call for as many as two openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing markets.

  For more information, contact Brad Farmer, Drapers & Damons, Inc., 17911 Mitchell Avenue South, Irvine, CA 92714; 714-540-7904, Fax 755-0816.

 

Jolene Company, Inc. does business as Jolene Children's Outlet at five locations in UT and WI.  The stores, selling children's apparel at off-price points, occupy spaces of 2,500 sq.ft. in outlet and strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in UT.

  For more information, contact Liz Geis, Jolene Company, Inc., 177 West Center Street, Provo, UT 84601; 801-375-6682, Fax 375-6611.

 

Jerel, Inc. trades as Inlook Outlet Store at two locations in TX.  The stores, selling women's ready-to-wear at discount price points, occupy spaces of 1,400 sq.ft. to 2,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Plans call for one opening in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing market.

  For more information, contact Linda Whitehead, Jerel, Inc., 1431 Regal Row, Dallas, TX 75247; 214-637-5300, Ext. 464, Fax 638-7902.

 

Converse Company Stores operates 30 locations in CA, FL, NC, MA, ME, RI, NY, TN, OR, AZ, LA, KS, TX, NV, WA and OK.  The stores, selling athletic footwear and apparel at 50% off the retail prices, occupy spaces of 5,500 sq.ft. in power centers.  Growth opportunities are sought nationwide.

  For more information, contact Tom Ricker, Converse Company Stores, 1 Fordham Road, North Reading, MA 01864; 508-664-7566, Fax 664-7561.

 

JH Collectibles, Inc. trades as JH Collectibles at 33 locations nationwide.  The women's apparel stores occupy spaces of 1,000 sq.ft. to 12,000 sq.ft. in outlet centers.  Plans call for two openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place nationwide.

  For more information, contact Stanley Jolton, JH Collectibles, Inc., 4950 South Sixth Street, Milwaukee, WI 53221; 414-744-5080, Fax 747-7488.

 

Jacques Jaunet, Inc. trades as New Man at two locations in FL.  The men's and women's sportswear stores occupy spaces of 1,000 sq.ft. to 1,200 sq.ft. in fashion-focused, upscale centers.  Plans call for two openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in CA and NY.

  For more information, contact Pamela Langlais, Jacques Jaunet, Inc., 543 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10022; 212-758-3337, Fax 418-0713.

 

Bugle Boy Industries, Inc. trades as Bugle Boy Factory Store at 133 locations nationwide, exclusive of MT, WY, ND and SD.  The family apparel stores occupy spaces of 4,000 sq.ft. to 8,000 sq.ft. in outlet centers.  Plans call for 20 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place nationwide.

  For more information, contact Scott Solomon, Bugle Boy Industries, Inc., 355 East Easy Street, Simi Valley, CA 93065; 805-579-2339, Fax 579-2253.

 

Carlisle's, Inc. trades as Carlisle Retailers at seven locations in OH and PA.  The family apparel stores, which also sell jewelry and fashion accessories, occupy spaces of 25,000 sq.ft. to 35,000 sq.ft. in strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought within a 300 to 400 mile radius of Ashtabula, OH.

  For more information, contact Vince Coneglio, Carlisle's, Inc., 4509 Main Avenue, Ashtabula, OH 44004; 216-998-1868, Fax 992-9074.

 

Chum Kim Chow Ltd., Inc. trades as Chum Kim Chow at 21 locations in HI.  The apparel stores occupy spaces of 2,400 sq.ft. in regional malls.  Growth opportunities are sought in HI and Guam.

  For more information, contact Paul Chun, Chum Kim Chow Ltd., Inc., 1159 Fort Street, Honolulu, HI 96813; 808-537-5911, Fax 537-4483.

 

Al's Formal Wear of Houston does business as Brides Mart and Ascot Tuxedo at 62 locations in TX and LA.  The bridalwear and tuxedo rental stores occupy spaces of 1,000 sq.ft. to 8,400 sq.ft. in regional malls and strip centers.  Plans call for 12 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing markets.

  For more information, contact Ellis Rushefsky, Al's Formal Wear of Houston, 7807 South Main, Houston, TX 77030; 713-791-1888, Fax 791-1692.

 

 

Who's Opening and Where...

 

Foozles, Inc. (615-558-8187) recently opened an 8,400 sq.ft. Foozles, An Extraordinary Bookstore at VF Center in Wyomissing, PA.  The company is also planning to open a 25,000 sq.ft. store in the Porter Exchange Building in Cambridge, MA and a 20,000 sq.ft. unit at The Great Mall of The Northwest in  Auburn, WA this fall.  The multimedia superstores offer books, music cds and cassettes, videos, computer software and stationary.

 

Edwards Theatres Circuit, Inc. (714-644-0760) plans to construct a 60,000 sq.ft., 14-screen movie theater at The Marketplace in Bakersfield, CA.  The theater is expected to open during Summer 1996.

 

Vons (818-821-7050) plans to open a 55,000 sq.ft. supermarket at The Marketplace in Bakersfield, CA during Summer 1996.

 

Barnes & Noble (212-633-3512) recently opened Barnes & Noble Bookstores at Bayshore Mall in Milwaukee, WI, and stores in West Los Angeles, CA and Amarillo, TX.  The company is also planning to open a 21,500 sq.ft. unit in Macon, GA; a 25,000 sq.ft. unit in Rancho Cucamonga, CA; and a 25,000 sq.ft. store in Fayetteville, AR.

 

Quizno Corp. (303-368-9424) recently signed area agreements with Dave Kajganich to develop 55 Quizno's Classic Sub restaurants in the Cleveland, OH area over the next seven years, and with Bob Taylor to develop 14 units in western NE over the next four year.  The company also announced that its 11th store in the Chicago, IL area recently opened.

 

Toys 'R Us (201-559-6981) recently opened a store in Haifa, Israel through its franchisee Super Pharm.  Super Pharm is planning to open two more units in the Tel Aviv area during 1996.  Toys 'R Us currently operates 618 toys stores in the US, 306 units internationally and 209 Kids 'R Us stores.

 

Marshall Field's (612-375-2200) plans to open a home furnishings store in Oak Brook, IL.

 

Walgreens (708-940-2680) plans to open three drug stores in Richmond, VA before the end of the year and plans to open 10 stores in the market during 1996.

 

Crown Books Corp. (301-731-1200) plans to open as many as 15 units of 15,000 sq.ft. Super Crown Bookstores in the Houston, TX market over the next three years.

 

Dillard's Department Stores (501-376-5200) plans to open a 95,000 sq.ft. store at Twin Peaks Mall in Longmont, CO during spring 1997, and an 85,540 sq.ft. unit at Frontier Mall in Cheyenne, WY during fall 1997.

 

Regal Cinemas (615-922-1123) plans to build a 12 screen movie theater in Center City Philadelphia, PA.

 

Borders, Inc. (313-995-9702) plans to open a Borders Book and Music store at Concord Square in Wilmington, DE during December.  The company is also planning to open a unit at Perimeter Plaza in Montclair, CA during spring 1996; a unit at Stark Commons in Canton, OH and a unit in Houston, TX during summer 1996.

 

Staples (508-370-8967) plans to open as many as 90 stores during its current fiscal year and as many as 100 units during its next fiscal year.  The company has already opened 36 stores this fiscal year.

 

 

New Construction

 

The Sheldon Development Company plans to break ground this fall on Belt Line Pavilion Shopping Center in Mesquite, TX.  The 325,000 sq.ft. project will be anchored by a 70,500 sq.ft. Super 1 Foods and a 2,000 seat, 10 screen Starplex Cinema movie theater.  The center is expected to open during mid-1996.

  For more information, contact Brett Sheldon of Sheldon Development Company at (214-383-1220).

 

Jim Wilson & Associates, Inc. plans to break ground this fall on the Mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge, LA.  The 1.3 million sq.ft. project will be anchored by a 210,000 sq.ft. Dillard's Department Store, a 206,000 sq.ft. Maison Blanche/Goudchaux store and a 150,000 sq.ft. Sears store.  Three additional anchor spaces, ranging in size from 130,000 sq.ft. to 150,000 sq.ft., will also be constructed as will 337,000 sq.ft. of specialty store space.  The project is expected to open during fall 1997.

  For more information, contact David Wills of Jim Wilson & Associates, Inc., at (334-260-2500).

 

Ashton Properties is currently constructing Eastgate Commons Shopping Center in Statesville, NC.  The project is anchored by Food Lion and includes 11,490 sq.ft. of small shop space.  The project is expected to open this month.

  For more information, contact Kevin Flynn or Robert Marshall of Ashton Properties at (704-366-7337), Fax (365-3125).

 

Carolina Holdings, Inc. recently broke ground on phase one of Oakwood Square in Greensboro, NC.  The project will be anchored by a 30,213 sq.ft. Borders Books and Music store, a 4,800 sq.ft. Jewelry3 store and a freestanding McDonald's restaurant.  The project is expected to open during November.

  For more information, contact Bill Misiaveg of Carolina Holdings, Inc. at (803-458-8088).

 

Timber Development Corp., in a joint venture with THF Realty, recently broke ground on a 90,000 sq.ft. shopping center in Somerset, PA.  The project is anchored by a 55,000 sq.ft. Giant Eagle Supermarket and includes 25,000 sq.ft. of small shop space and two outparcels.  A 95,000 sq.ft. Wal*Mart is located adjacent to the site.

  For more information, contact Douglas Bercu or Mike Timmons of Timber Development Corp. at (404-257-9508).

 

Duke Realty Investments recently broke ground on phase one of Tuttle Crossing in Columbus, OH.  Phase one construction includes a 58,000 sq.ft. Best Buy store, which is expected to open this fall, and a 149,000 sq.ft. Wal*Mart, which is expected to open during spring 1996.  Phase two construction will include a 40,000 sq.ft. Lazarus Furniture Gallery, 10,000 sq.ft. of small store space and two to four big box anchors.  The project is located adjacent to The Mall at Tuttle Crossing, which is anchored by Lazarus, Marshall Field's, JC Penney and Sears.  Duke Realty also recently acquired 21 acres of land in Cincinnati, OH for the development of a 225,000 sq.ft. project to be called Governor's Pointe.

  For more information, contact the leasing department at Duke Realty Investments at (317-846-4700).

 

 

Drug Stores Looking for New Sites

 

Melville Corp. trades as CVS at 1,350 locations in CT, MA, MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VA, VT and Washington, D.C.  The drug stores occupy spaces of 8,000 sq.ft. to 11,000 sq.ft. in downtown store fronts, convenience strip centers and freestanding facilities.  Plans call for 150 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing markets.  Preferred demographics include a population of 18,000 within one mile.

  For more information, contact Dennis McMullen, Melville Corp., One CVS Drive, Woonsocket, RI 02895; 401-765-1500, Fax 769-6593.

 

Maple Drug Stores, Inc. trades as Maple Drug Stores at four locations in MI.  The drug stores occupy spaces of 9,000 sq.ft. in strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing market.

  For more information, contact Alvin Wander, Maple Drug stores, Inc., 24500 Northwest Highway, Southfield, MI 48075; 810-827-7070, Fax 827-7076.

 

Thrifty Pay Less, Inc. trades as Pay Less and Thrifty Drug at more than 1,000 locations in AZ, CA, CO, AK, ID, MT, NV, OR, UT, WA and WY.  The drug stores occupy spaces of 25,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Plans call for up to 30 openings annually.  Expansion will take place in the existing markets.

  For more information, contact Jim Gaube or Ray Payne, Thrifty Pay Less, Inc., 9275 S.W. Peyton Lane, Wylsonville, OR 97070; 503-682-4100, Fax 685-6064.

 

Thrift Drug, Inc. trades as Thrift Drug at 620 locations in DE, KS, KY, MD, MO, NC, NJ, OH, OK, PA, VA and WV.  The drug stores occupy spaces of 7,500 sq.ft. to 11,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Plans call for 35 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing markets.

  For more information, contact James Sinkway, Thrift Drug, Inc., 8 Queen Anne Court, Langhorne, PA 19047; 215-949-4909, Fax 949-4926.

 

Nelson's Drug Stores, Inc. trades as Nelson Drug Stores at 10 locations in OH and WV.  The drug stores occupy spaces of 7,500 sq.ft. in strip centers.  Plans call for two openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing markets.

  For more information, contact Ed Nelson III, Nelson's Drug Stores, Inc., PO Box 1079, Parkersburgh, WV 26101; 304-422-4593, Fax 485-2707.

 

Keltsch Brothers, Inc. does business as Keltsch Pharmacy at 17 locations throughout IN.  The drug stores occupy spaces of 10,000 sq.ft. to 12,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing market.

  For more information, contact Richard Keltsch, Keltsch Brothers, Inc., 4101 North Clinton Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46805; 219-482-1510, Fax 484-5350.

 

Marc Glassman, Inc. trades as Marc's at 42 locations in CT, MA and OH.  The drug stores occupy spaces of 30,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Plans call for six openings annually.  Expansion will take place in CT and OH.

  For more information, contact Ken Sustin, Marc Glassman, Inc., 5841 West 130th Street, Cleveland, OH 44130; 216-265-7700, Fax 265-7740.

 

American Stores Properties, Inc. trades as Osco Drug at 900 locations nationwide.  The drug stores occupy spaces of 13,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities.  Plans call for 100 openings annually.  Expansion will take place nationwide.

  For more information, contact Robert A. Stack, American Stores Properties, Inc., 2100 Swift Drive, Oak Brook, IL 60521; 708-572-5180, Fax 571-6143.

 

Revco D.S., Inc. trades as Revco at 1,150 locations in the Midwest and Atlantic regions.  The drug stores occupy spaces of 8,000 sq.ft. to 10,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities, specialty and strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in IL, IN, KY, OH, PA, MD, NJ, WV, NY, VA, GA, TN and SC.

  For more information, contact Jim Hagan, Revco D.S., Inc., 1925 Enterprise Parkway, Twinsburg, OH 44087-2207; 216-425-9811, Fax 487-1631.

 

 

Department Stores Searching for New Sites

 

G.R. Herberger's, Inc. trades as Herberger's at 40 locations in MN, IA, MT, ND, NE, SD, WI, WY, CO and IL.  The department stores occupy spaces of 70,000 sq.ft. to 100,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and regional malls.  Plans call for two openings annually.  Expansion will take place in the existing markets.

  For more information, contact John Brownson, G.R. Herberger's, Inc., 600 Mall Germain, Saint Cloud, MN 56302; 612-654-2236, Fax 654-7040.

 

Bonton operates 67 locations in NY, NJ, PA, MD, GA and WV.  The department stores occupy spaces of 100,000 sq.ft. in regional malls and strip centers.  Plans call for four openings in the coming six months.  Expansion will take place in NY.

  For more information, contact Steve Evans, Bonton, 2801 East Market Street, York, PA 17402; 717-757-7660, Fax 751-3196.

 

May Department Store Co. trades as Foley's at 49 locations in AZ, CO, NM, OK and TX.  The department stores occupy spaces of 150,000 sq.ft. in regional malls.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing markets.

  For more information, contact Dwayne Vaughn, May Department Store Co., 611 Olive Street, St. Louis, MO 63101; 314-342-6798.

 

Mercantile, Inc. does business as Maison Blanche, Gayfers, Glassblock, The Jones Store Co., Joslin's, Bacons, Hennessy's, De Lendrecies, McAlpin's, Lion, Castner Knott Co. and J.B. White at 103 locations in the Southern, Midwestern and Rocky Mountain states.  The department stores occupy spaces of 140,000 sq.ft. to 200,000 sq.ft. in regional malls.  Plans call for five openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in SC, OH and LA.

  For more information, contact Bernard Breitenbach, Mercantile, Inc., 9450 Seward Road, Fairfield, OH 45014; 513-881-8000, Fax 881-8689.

 

Dawahares of Lexington, Inc. trades as Dawahares/Martin's at 20 locations in KY, OH, TN and WV.  The department stores occupy spaces of 10,000 sq.ft. to 20,000 sq.ft. in regional malls and strip centers.  Plans call for two openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in KY and TN.

  For more information, contact A.F. Dawahare, Dawahares of Lexington, Inc., 1845 Alexandria Drive, Lexington, KY 40504; 606-278-0422, Fax 277-5673.

 

Dayton Hudson Corp. trades as Mervyn's at 287 locations in CA, CO, FL, GA, LA, MI, NV, NM, OK, TX, UT and WA.  The department stores occupy spaces of 75,000 sq.ft. to 100,000 sq.ft. in regional malls and strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing markets.

  For more information, contact Scott Nelson, Dayton Hudson Corp., 33 South 6th Street, Minneapolis, MN 55440; 612-304-6073.

 

Gottschalk's operates 59 locations in CA, WA, OR and NV.  The department stores occupy spaces of 65,000 sq.ft. to 100,000 sq.ft. in regional malls.  Plans call for up to three openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in NV, CA, WA or OR.

  For more information, contact Joe Levy, Gottschalk's, PO Box 28920, Fresno, CA 93729-8920; 209-434-4744, Fax 434-4804.

 

JC Penney Company, Inc. trades as JC Penney at 1,242 locations nationwide.  The department stores occupy spaces of 22,000 sq.ft. to 155,000 sq.ft. in regional malls and strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought nationwide.

  For more information, contact Michael Lowenkron, JC Penney Company, Inc., 6501 Legacy Drive, Plano, TX 75024; 214-431-1000, Fax 431-1626.

 

Beall's, Inc. trades as Beall's Department Store at 57 locations in FL.  The stores occupy spaces of 35,000 sq.ft. to 70,000 sq.ft. in strip centers.  Plans call for two openings in fiscal 1996, four openings in fiscal 1997 and four openings in fiscal 1998.  Expansion will take place in FL.

  Beall's, Inc. also trades as Beall's Outlets at 110 locations in AZ, FL and GA.  The stores, selling branded apparel, gifts and domestics at up to 70% off department store prices, occupy spaces of 8,000 sq.ft. to 30,000 sq.ft. in regional malls and strip centers.  Plans call for 10 openings in fiscal 1996.  Expansion will take place in the existing markets as well as NV and SC.

  Another division of Beall's, Inc. trades as Out and Out Gifts at four locations in FL.  The stores, selling gifts for the family at discounted prices, occupy spaces of 2,500 sq.ft. to 3,500 sq.ft. in outlet centers and regional malls.  Plans call for three openings in fiscal 1996.  Expansion will take place in the existing market.

  The company also operates three stores as Coral Bay Direct in FL and GA.  The stores, selling private label missy sportswear at off prices, occupy spaces of 3,000 sq.ft. to 5,000 sq.ft. in outlet centers.  Plans call for four openings in fiscal 1996, 10 openings in fiscal 1997 and 10 openings in fiscal 1998.  Expansion will take place in the Southeastern region.

  Beall's, Inc. also trades as Outlooks at one location in FL.  The store, selling junior and young men's clothing, uses spaces between 5,000 sq.ft. and 8,000 sq.ft. in regional malls.  Plans call for one opening in fiscal 1996.  Expansion will take place in the existing market.

  For more information on the above five chains, contact Seth Layton, Beall's, Inc., 1806 38th Avenue East, Bradenton, FL 34208; 941-747-2355, Ext. 330, Fax 747-5741.

 

 

Entertainment Tenants Looking To Expand

 

B&B Movie Co. trades as B&B Theatres at 27 locations in KS, MO and OK.  The movie theaters occupy spaces of 12,000 sq.ft. to 22,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and regional malls.  Plans call for two openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in MO.  Preferred demographics include a population of 40,000 within 20 miles.  Leases running 10 years are typical.

  For more information, contact Robert Bagby, B&B Movie Co., 119 West Second Street, Salisbury, MO 65281; 816-388-5219.

 

United Artist Theaters operates 442 locations nationwide.  The movie theaters occupy spaces of 35,000 sq.ft. to 80,000 sq.ft. in a variety of real estate settings.  Plans call for 38 openings by 1997.  Expansion will take place nationwide.

  For more information, contact Allen Hollis, United Artists Theaters, 9110 East Nicholas Avenue/Suite 200, Englewood, CO 80112; 303-792-8255, Fax 792-8811.

 

Flo-Tron Enterprises, Inc. operates 31 Whirly Ball indoor amusement centers nationwide.  The concept uses spaces of 12,000 sq.ft. to 15,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities.  Growth opportunities are sought worldwide.

  For more information, contact Kim Mangum, Flo-Tron Enterprises, Inc., 5149 South Main, Murray, UT 84107; 801-263-8213, Fax 263-8244.

 

Sony Theatres operates 170 locations in VT, NH, MA, CT, NY, NJ, PA, MD, VA, OH, IN, TX, IL and KY.  The movie theaters occupy spaces of 56,000 sq.ft. to 67,000 sq.ft. in downtown store fronts, freestanding facilities, regional malls, power and strip centers.  Plans call for seven openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing markets as well as CA.

  For more information, contact Robert John, Sony Theatres, 711 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10022; 212-833-6167, Fax 833-6267.

 

Graham Brothers Entertainment, Inc. does business as Denim and Diamonds and Rockin' Rodeo at 21 locations in AZ, FL, TX, OK, LA, TN and MO.  The night clubs occupy spaces of 20,000 sq.ft. in a variety of real estate settings.  The company prefers to renovate existing space and parking for 1,500 cars is needed.  Plans call for up to three openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in CA and TX.

  For more information, contact Jimmy Cooper, Graham Brothers Entertainment, Inc., 6201 Andrews Highway, Odessa, TX 79762; 800-554-4372, Fax 915-362-9456.

 

Crown Cinema Corporation operates 50 locations in KS, MO and OH.  The movie theaters occupy spaces of 23,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and regional malls.  Plans call for the opening of four units in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing markets.

  For more information, contact Richard Durwood, Crown Cinema Corporation, 406 West 34th Street/ Suite 623, Kansas City, MO 64111; 816-753-2355, Fax 931-6021.

 

Mountasia Entertainment International, Inc. trades as Mountasia at 44 locations nationwide.  The family entertainment centers, offering miniature golf, bumper boats, batting cages and go carts, occupy spaces of 6,000 sq.ft. to 30,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities on one to 12 acres of land.  Plans call for the opening of eight units annually.  Expansion will take place in NE, FL, CO, NV, TX, OH, NC, SC, Canada and Europe.  Preferred demographics include a population of 300,000 within 10 miles earning $40,000 as the average income.  The company prefers to own its sites.

  For more information, contact Gene Eisenberg, Mountasia Entertainment International, Inc., c/o Entertainment Realty, 1111 Alderman Drive, Building 200/ Suite 275, Alpharetta, GA 30202; 404-663-1280, Fax 663-1284.

 

Movie One Theatres operates seven locations in CO, FL, NM and TX.  The movie theaters occupy spaces of 30,000 sq.ft. to 39,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities, regional malls, power and strip centers.  Preferred anchors include Wal*Mart, Kmart and supermarkets.  Plans call for six openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the Southeastern and Western regions.  Preferred demographics include a population of 175,000 within five miles earning $28,000 as the average income.  Leases running 15 years are typical.

  For more information, contact Frank Meogrossi, Movie One Theatres, 2627 South Fundy Way, Aurora, CO 80013; 303-693-0242.

 

 

Home Decor/Furnishing & Improvement

Tenants Looking To Expand

 

Linen Supermarket, Inc. does business as Home Front and Linen Supermarket at 120 locations in FL, GA, TX, NM, MI, OH and PA.  The stores, selling linens, bed and bath items, occupy spaces of 8,000 sq.ft. to 20,000 sq.ft. in regional malls, power and strip centers.  Plans call for 10 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing markets.

  For more information, contact Dennis Kleiner, Linen Supermarket, Inc., 3101 NW 25th Avenue, Pompano Beach, FL 33069; 305-960-4918, Fax 960-0487.

 

Home Express, Inc. trades as Home Express at 14 locations in AZ, CA and NV.  The stores, selling bedding, dishes, kitchenware, small electronics and light weight furniture at budget price-points, occupy spaces of 40,000 sq.ft. in strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing markets.

  For more information, contact Michael Latourette, Home Express, Inc., 26534 Danti Court, Hayward, CA 94545; 510-732-9600, Fax 732-9094.

 

Lancaster Colony Corp. trades as Fostoria Glass, Inc. at nine locations in GA, IL, KS, OH, OK, SC, TN and WV.  The stores, selling glassware and candles, occupy spaces of 2,500 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities.  Plans call for two openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the Midwestern and Southwestern regions.

  For more information, contact David B. Gerlach, Lancaster Colony Corp., 240 Main Street, Lancaster, OH 43130; 614-224-7141, Fax 469-8219.

 

United Equities trades as Garden Ridge at 11 locations in TX, KY, OK and TN.  The stores, selling silk and dried flowers, crafts, party supplies, pottery, baskets, housewares, candles and other home decor items, occupy spaces of 140,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and power centers.  Plans call for at least three openings in 1996.  Expansion will take place in Jacksonville, FL; Charlotte, NC and Tulsa, OK.

  For more information, contact Buster Freedman, United Equities, 6909 Ashcroft/ Suite 200, Houston, TX 77081; 713-772-6262, Fax 981-4035.

 

MBCA Flower MBCA Group trades as Seasonal Concepts at 15 locations nationwide.  The company also operates 55 "Christmas on the Mall" temporary stores nationwide from September to January.  The permanent stores occupy spaces of 12,000 sq.ft. to 30,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities, regional malls and strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought nationwide.

  For more information, contact Al Schneider, MBCA Flower MBCA Group, 975 Nathan Lane, Plymouth, MN 55144; 612-546-8887, Fax 546-0502.

 

Circle Fine Art Corp. operates 27 locations in AZ, CA, CO, FL, GA, HI, IL, KS, LA, MD, MI and MO.  The stores, which sell art and collectibles, occupy spaces of 800 sq.ft. to 5,000 sq.ft. in downtown store fronts, freestanding facilities and regional malls.  Preferred anchors include Lord & Taylor.  Plans call for five openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing markets.   Leases running 10 years are typical.  The 31-year-old company, which caters to an upscale clientele, requires landlord improvements.

  For more information, contact Jack Solomon, Circle Fine Art Corp., 303 East Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60601; 312-616-1300, Fax 616-1301.

 

Country Visions does business as Country Clutter at 13 locations in AL, CA, FL, GA, ID, TN, TX and WA.  The stores, selling country-themed gifts, collectibles and home decor items, occupy spaces of 1,800 sq.ft. to 2,200 sq.ft. in regional malls and outlet centers.  Plans call for 10 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place nationwide.  Preferred demographics include a population of 500,000 within 30 miles earning at least $35,000 as the average income.  Leases running five years are typical, and the four-year-old company requires a vanilla shell plus $40,000 in a tenant improvement allowance.  The company is also franchising.

  For more information, contact Scott Jacobs, Country Visions, 3333 Vaca Valley Parkway #900, Vacaville, CA 95688; 707-451-6890, Fax 451-0410.

 

Aropi, Inc. trades as Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium at 37 locations in AL, AR, FL, GA, IA, IL, KY, LA, PA, TN and VA.  The stores, selling kitchen utensils, gourmet gadgets and home decor items, occupy spaces of 1,800 sq.ft. in regional malls.  Plans call for five openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing states.

  For more information, contact Glen Kaas, Aropi, Inc., 4264 Winter Chapel Road, Atlanta, GA 30360; 770-457-2600, Fax 457-3110.

 

Wood Craft operates eight locations in KY, IN and OH.  The furniture stores occupy spaces of 5,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Plans call for one opening in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing market.

  For more information, contact Jeffrey Craft, Wood Craft, 9340 Lebanon Pike, Centerville, OH 45459; 513-433-0082, Fax 435-7514.

 

Sun Valley Waterbeds, Inc. trades as The Bedroom Super Stores at 52 locations in CA, OR, WA, CO, AZ, UT, MN and WI.  The stores, selling bedroom furniture, occupy spaces of 10,000 sq.ft. to 35,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities, power and strip centers.  Preferred anchors include Wal*Mart, Kmart and Home Depot.  Plans call for the opening of four units in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in MN, NM, AZ, WA, ID, TX or NV.  Preferred demographics include a population of 500,000 within 75 miles earning $40,000 as the average income.  Leases running five years are typical.

  For more information, contact Danny Dean, Sun Valley Waterbeds, Inc., 5015 North 19th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85015-3202; 602-242-2379, Fax 242-6664.

 

Tollefson's, Inc. operates seven locations in ND and MT.  The home furnishings stores occupy spaces of 16,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities.  Preferred anchors include Wal*Mart.  Plans call for one opening in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in MT, WY, SD or MN.  Preferred demographics include a population of 100,000 within 10 to 30 miles.  The 70-year-old company prefers to purchase its locations.

  For more information, contact Roger Tollefson, Tollefson's, Inc., Rural Route 1 Box 140, Minot, ND 58702; 701-852-5231, Fax 838-7124.

 

Sit 'N Sleep Centers, Inc. trades as Mattress King at 18 locations in NC and VA.  The stores, selling home furnishings, occupy spaces of 2,500 sq.ft. to 4,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities, outlet, power and strip centers.  Preferred anchors include Wal*Mart and T.J. Maxx.  Plans call for 10 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place nationwide.  Leases running five to 15 years are typical.

  For more information, contact Neil Gulati, Sit 'N Sleep Centers, Inc., 6000 B West Broad Street #8, Richmond, VA 23230-2222; 804-282-3366, Fax 282-1341.

 

Reliable Stores, Inc. trades as Reliable Stores at 78 locations in MD, PA, VA and WV.  The company operates 40 furniture stores which use spaces of 10,000 sq.ft. to 25,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities, regional malls and strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing markets.  The company also operates 38 jewelry stores.

  For more information, contact Richard Barnett, Reliable Stores, Inc., 6301 Stevens Forest Road, Columbia, MD 21046; 410-381-9650, Fax 386-9791.

 

Self Service Furniture, Inc. trades as Self Service Furniture at 25 locations in CA, ID, MT, OR and WA.  The stores, selling home furnishings and carpeting, occupy spaces of 45,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Plans call for one opening in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in either OR or WA.

  For more information, contact Tom Griner, Self Service Furniture, Inc., 5401 East Sprague Avenue, Spokane, WA 99212; 509-535-7717, Fax 535-2724.

 

Bush Industries trades as Outlet Furnishings at three locations in CA, FL and PA.  The furniture stores occupy spaces of 5,000 sq.ft. to 7,000 sq.ft. in outlet centers.  Plans call for 12 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in GA, PA, MA, NY, NV, WA, TX, IL, IN and MO.  Preferred demographics include a population of 120,000 within 20 miles earning $30,000 as the average income.

  For more information, contact Cindy Opferbeck, Bush Industries, 7200 Peach Street #410 Box 12, Erie, PA 16509; 814-866-0620, Fax 866-1567.

 

Granite Furniture Company operates four