Issue.22 for the week of June 26, 1996
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The Dealmakers Issue Number 22 for the week of June 26, 1996.

 

My Way by Ted Kraus

 

I'm positive the main reason small shop space is leasing slow is not because retail sales are soft or retailers aren't making a profit, but because developers either don't want to  or don't know how to lease.  Here's a perfect example, I recently called National Realty & Development on behalf of a client seeking space in the area National has a center.  The first time I called, I asked for whoever was leasing the ABC Center in the town of XYZ.  I was told that I had to be more specific, since they have numerous centers in that town with the same name (Da).  When I explained to the receptionist that they had only one center by any name in that town, she still contended the name and city were not enough.  I then said it was anchored by Caldor and Foodtown, does that help?  She then connected me to voice mail, where I left a message.  I waited a day, received no return call and called again.  This time I was connected to someone else's voice mail and left another message.  I waited another day, didn't receive a return call so I tried again (who says brokers don't work hard for our money).  This time I got connected to a live person.  (Sidebar--I believe voice mail is slowing down productivity in our society, not increasing it.)  I explained who I was, who I represented and what center we were interested in.  I was told that they did not have enough space available to accommodate our client (Funny, I had a letter in front of me from them offering 9,000 sq.ft. and the letter was five days old).  I said fine, but keep us in mind if something should change.  The leasing rep then said that they were contacted by another broker three or four months ago for the same tenant.  I asked if they had made the deal with the retailer (I already knew the answer).  He responded no, but wanted me to be aware.  While, believe it or not, I try not to be argumentative, something about this bugged me so I responded, "There's no need to worry, when we negotiate the lease, we put in a provision saying that if the landlord doesn't pay us, the tenant has the right to take it out of rent plus 18% interest," that's usually sufficient to satisfy most landlords that the tenant knows us and we're representing them.  My sarcasm was lost on him, so I tried to end the conversation with "Do you have any other centers with this type of square footage available in New Jersey?"

 

He responded that before they could release that information (I guess it's classified, for the Presidents eyes only) he requires written authorization from the tenant.  I said, "Have a nice day" and hung up.  They are so paranoid that they might have to pay a commission that they'd almost rather not make a deal.  It reminds me of a Rickel's store manager I was talking to who complained that customers kept getting his store dirty.  I suggested he not allow them in, which he was agreeable to, but felt his supervisor might get upset.  Well, he no longer has to worry about customers dirtying up his store...they're out of business.

 

The same is true for leasing, yes, no one likes to pay a commission and yes, some brokers claim to represent a retailer when they don't, but if you're a developer who can't "control" the entire leasing process and the broker(s) involved, you have no right to be in business.  First make the deal, then worry about commissions.  I get calls all the time from brokers claiming to represent the same tenant.  If I don't have a relationship with the tenant, I say "great, set up a meeting, if we make a deal, you get paid, if we don't, you won't."  It's such a simple concept few brokers have trouble understanding it.  First, it's a sin that I had to call three times to speak to a leasing rep (and they didn't know I was a broker).  Then to "waste" 75% of the time on the phone discussing brokerage instead of trying to make a deal is insane.  Making matters worse, the receptionist interrogated me for five minutes before letting me talk to anyone.  Something is wrong here.  I wouldn't be surprised if he calls the tenant directly to try and get around the broker.  Of course, if they had spoken to a broker three months ago and no deal was made, why didn't they call the tenant to find out where they could make a deal?  Guess it required to much effort.

 

On a different note, the other day I was reading that Sizzlers was going bankrupt, not because they didn't have any money, but because they wanted to disavow bad leases.  Their assets are nearly three times that of their liabilities, so they are in good financial shape.  Bankruptcy laws have to be changed to prevent this type of theft and while it might be legal, it is robbing the developer.  I am not pro developer (or retailer or broker), but this is totally insane.  It's just not fair.  Yes, bankruptcy is necessary to help out a company when they're in trouble.  Unfortunately, our industry has more than its fair share of bankruptcies and most of it was due to stupid decisions, not the desire to screw developers or retailers, but they needed to go "11" to stay in business not just make more money.  A friend of mine who is a CPA and auditor said bankruptcy is no longer about insolvency, it's become a marketing strategy.  He's right, but that's wrong.  More and more retailers are going "11" just to screw the landlord.  Caldor basically said that when they went "11," "We're not insolvent, we just want the same `sweetheart' deals that developers gave Bradlees when they went under."

 

The biggest problem in the bankruptcy process is the judges, they do not follow or obey the bankruptcy code, they make up their own rules as they go along and in their court, they are god.  Through our management division we get involved in tenants' bankruptcies occasionally.  The law says that the tenant has to notify the landlord within 90 days if they intend to disavow the lease.  Few, if any, do.  Sometimes we have to wait two or three years to find out what's happening with the property and that's usually resolved by the retailer converting to "7" instead of "11."  This is just an example of the stupidity involved, there's a lot more.

 

In a recent article in Chain Store Age, they contended that the next major retail shakeout will not occur until after the next recession.  I disagree, I think it will increase tremendously within the year to 18 months, and by then the next recession will be here and it will get worse.  So the law has to be changed now not five years from now.  Some of the statistics they discussed were scary.  They contend that we're in a stable period right now, with only 3,293 stores going out of business last year compared to a high of 5,300 in 1992.  Either way, that's a lot of vacant space.

 

I know the ICSC's Government Affairs is involved in reviewing and coming up with suggestions on how the bankruptcy code should be changed, but I consider this one of the most important pieces of legislation they must lobby to change and they should be pushing even harder.  Next to the dealmaking shows, this has to be the most important contribution the ICSC can do for its members.

 

Two other articles in Chain Store Age were interesting.  One was their editorial, which in essence said, "all specialty stores have a finite life span and then should or will be forced out of existence after a given period of time.  I agree wholeheartedly.  Nothing is forever and as another friend, Jeff Levy, said, "There are only temporary tenants left today, no one stays the length of their lease anymore."  The rapid growth of the category killers has also caused the rapid decline of the category killers.  Computer City, Media Play, Best Buy and Incredible Universe are just a few examples of companies getting "hot" and then cold in a short period of time.  The fact that Marshalls "had" to be sold to TJX Companies or Pace to Wal*Mart (but in my opinion, that was a brilliant move on Kmart's end, sell a losing division to their arch rival who can't seem to make their version of the concept work either and you hurt 'em in the long run) or Melville's decision to "spin off" Linens & Things and Bob's are another example that these concepts have a limited potential and lifespan.

 

This ties into their last article, which is how the Internet will affect conventional retailing.  The answer?  No one knows for sure, but it will be (in my humble opinion) a lot sooner and a lot harder than most believe.  Weak retailers and developers used to have years before their failures forced them out of business.  Today, its a lot less time before incompetency shows up.

 

 

Supermarkets Seeking Sites

 

H.E. Butt Grocery Co. trades as HEB at 231 locations in LA, TX and Mexico.  The supermarkets occupy spaces of 40,000 sq.ft. to 80,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in TX and Mexico.

  For more information, contact Eric Moede, H.E. Butt Grocery Co., 646 South Main Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78204; 210-246-8000, Fax 246-8530.

 

Demoulas/Market Basket trades as Market Basket at 57 locations in MA and NH.  The supermarkets occupy spaces of 50,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Plans call for as many as six openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing markets.

  For more information, contact Michael Katenbach, Demoulas/Market Basket, 881 East Street, Tewksbury, MA 01876; 508-851-0200, Fax 851-4962.

 

Abco Markets, Inc. trades as Abco Markets at 65 locations in AZ.  The supermarkets occupy spaces of 30,000 sq.ft. to 42,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Plans call for as many as eight openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing market.

  For more information, contact Bob Baynes, Abco Markets, Inc., 3001 West Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85017; 602-222-1600, Fax 222-1346.

 

Genuardi's Family Markets operates 27 locations in DE and PA.  The supermarkets occupy spaces of 45,000 sq.ft. to 65,000 sq.ft. in power and strip centers.  Plans call for five openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in DE, NJ and PA.  Leases running 30 years, including options, are typical.

  For more information, contact Skip Genuardi, Genuardi's Family Markets, 805 East Germantown Pike, Norristown, PA 19401; 610-277-6000, Fax 279-5281.

 

Hughes Markets, Inc. trades as Hughes Family Markets at 53 locations in CA.  The supermarkets occupy spaces of 38,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Plans call for the opening of four units in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing market.  Leases running 25 years, with four options of five-years each, are typical.

  For more information, contact Richard Ramonette, Hughes Markets, Inc., 14005 Live Oak Avenue, Irwindale, CA 91706; 818-856-6580, Fax 856-6040.

 

Roche Brothers Supermarkets, Inc. operates 13 locations in MA.  The supermarkets occupy spaces of 32,500 sq.ft. to 50,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in MA.  Preferred demographics include a population of 30,000 within three miles earning $50,000 as the average income.  Leases running 30 years are typical.

  For more information, contact Robert Annand, Roche Brothers Supermarkets, Inc., 70 Hastings Street, Wellesley, MA 02181; 617-235-9400, Fax 235-3153.

 

 

Exclusives: Leasing & Management Assignments

 

Harvey Lindsay Commercial Real Estate (804-640-8700) has been named the exclusive leasing and managing agent for Midtown Shopping Center in Norfolk, VA.

 

Neal Realty & Investments, Inc. (954-568-0530) has been awarded the exclusive marketing contracts for Plaza 2800, a 9,080 sq.ft. project in Lauderdale Lakes, FL; Imperial Towers North Shopping Center, a 9,111 sq.ft. project in Hallandale, FL; and Lauderdale Market Place, a 260,725 sq.ft. project anchored by Blockbuster Video in Lauderhill, FL.

 

United Commercial Realty (210-822-5000) has been named the exclusive leasing agent for Grandview Shopping Center in San Antonio, TX.  The 105,000 sq.ft. project is anchored by Gabriel's Liquor Store.  The company was also named the exclusive leasing agent for Exchange Plaza in San Antonio, TX.  The 144,000 sq.ft. project us anchored by Circuit City, Ross Dress For Less, Pier One Imports, Bally's Fitness and Applebee's Restaurant.  Outlots and pad sites are available for lease.

 

 

Lease Signings

 

Jones Lang Wootton (202-331-3333) leased 11,000 sq.ft. to The Fitness Company at The Waterfront Center in Georgetown, Washington, D.C.

 

Garrick-Aug Worldwide (212-850-0200) leased 6,000 sq.ft. to Cosmetics Plus on Fifth Avenue in New York, NY.

 

Montgomery Group Affiliates (610-825-7100) leased 16,137 sq.ft. to Sneaker Stadium at Festival at Hamilton in Mays Landing, NJ.

 

United Commercial Realty (214-526-6262) leased 6,050 sq.ft. to Blockbuster Video in Carrollton, TX; 6,548 sq.ft. to Blockbuster Video at Green Oaks Plaza Shopping Center in Arlington, TX; and 10,850 sq.ft. to Edwin Watts Golf in Dallas, TX.

 

 

Who's Opening and Where...

 

Albertson's (208-385-6200) recently opened a 50,222 sq.ft. supermarket in Upland, CA.  The company also plans to open five supermarkets, averaging 55,000 sq.ft., in San Antonio, TX by early 1997.

 

Borders, Inc. (313-913-1323) plans to open a 27,500 sq.ft. bookstore in Tampa, FL during the Fall; a 27,500 sq.ft. unit in Monroeville, PA during November; a 20,000 sq.ft. unit at Grand Traverse Crossing Shopping Center in Traverse City, MI during November and a 27,500 sq.ft. unit in Creve Coeur, MO during November.  The company recently opened a store in Rocky Ridge Town Center in Roseville, CA.

 

Hollywood Entertainment (503-677-1600) is on pace to open 260 Hollywood Video stores this year and is planning to open 200 stores next year.  The company, which currently operates 354 units in 22 states is looking to eventually become a national chain with 2,000 stores.

 

Sony Theaters (212-833-6160) plans to open a 60,000 sq.ft. 12-screen Magic Johnson Theater that will seat 3,500 at Northline Mall in Houston, TX during early 1997.

 

GFS Realty/Giant Food (301-341-8422) plans to open as many as 45 supermarkets in DE, NJ and PA in the coming 10 years.  The company currently operates 165 supermarkets.

 

Pathmark (908-499-3357) is looking to develop a 53,000 sq.ft. supermarket in East Harlem, NY later this year.

 

RTM Restaurant Group (404-256-4900), which is the largest Arby's franchisee with 307 restaurants, recently signed an agreement with Arby's that will allow RTM to open an additional 210 units in the coming 10 years.  Overall, RTM is a franchisee of 515 restaurants in 14 states trading as Arby's, Del Taco, Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken, Mrs. Winner's Chicken and Biscuits, Shoney's Family Restaurants and Spinner's Rotisserie Chicken.

 

RCS Computer Experience (212-949-6935) plans to open a 7,000 sq.ft. store on Madison Avenue in New York, NY during August.  The store, the company's second, will feature an Internet Center and a service center as well as computer hardware and software.

 

Venture Stores, Inc. (314-281-5500) plans to reopen four stores in Indianapolis, IN during August.  The company is reopening several stores because of a turnaround in the company's financial condition.

 

47th Street Photo (212-398-1530) plans to open a 12,600 sq.ft. store at The Source in Westbury, NY during late summer 1997.

 

Claire's Stores (305-433-3900), which sells women's costume jewelry and accessories, recently started test-selling junior clothing at its The Icing stores.  If the test proves successful, the company plans a nationwide roll-out of the concept.  However, if the concept fails, the company plans to convert the stores to Claire's Boutique units.

 

U.S. Factory Outlets, Inc. (212-563-3650) plans to open a 43,000 sq.ft. store in Tupelo, MS during October.  This store will be the first of series of stores located in factory outlet centers.

 

Act III (503-221-0213) plans to open a 70,000 sq.ft. 17-screen movie theater at SuperMall of the Great Northwest during the Fall.

 

 

New Construction

 

Cencor Realty Services recently broke ground in Arboretum Crossing in Austin, TX.  The 250,000 sq.ft. project will be anchored by a  45,576 sq.ft. Circuit City, a 40,000 sq.ft. Baby Superstore, an 18,900 sq.ft. Cost Plus, a 15,675 sq.ft. Just For Feet, a 15,000 sq.ft. Mikasa China and a 10,000 sq.ft. Party City.  The project is expected to open during November.  The company is planning to break ground late this year on Round Rock Crossing in Round Rock, TX.  The 327,000 sq.ft. project will be anchored by a 117,453 sq.ft. Target and an Applebee's restaurant.

  For more information, contact Tom Terkel of Cencor Realty Services at (214-954-0300).

 

CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. recently broke ground on Springhurst Towne Center in Louisville, KY.  The 827,550 sq.ft. project will be anchored by a 238,000 sq.ft. Meijer store, a 123,700 sq.ft. Target discount store, an 86,000 sq.ft. Kohl's Department Store, a 77,000 sq.ft. 20-screen Cinemark USA movie theater and a 42,000 sq.ft. Party Source store.  Approximately 35,500 sq.ft. of specialty store space will be constructed and future expansion at the project can accommodate seven more anchor stores.  Space for 13 freestanding buildings is also planned  The project is expected to open during Fall 1997.

  For more information, contact Mark Gramberg, project manager ofCBL & Associates Properties, Inc. at (800-333-7310, Ext. 246).

 

Peter D. Cummins & Associates, Inc. is currently developing Bakery Square in Houston, TX.  The 35,000 sq.ft. project will be anchored by a 15,120 sq.ft. Walgreens, a 6,484 sq.ft. Blockbuster Video and a 3,878 sq.ft. NationsBank.  The project is expected to open during the fourth quarter.

  For more information, contact Blake Tartt, III, leasing represntative, of New Regional Planning, Inc. at (713-523-2929).

 

Opus Corporation is currently developing Stanford Ranch Crossing in Roseville, CA.  The 380,000 sq.ft. project will be anchored by Price Club, Sports Authority, Toys 'R Us and Linens 'N Things.  Approximately 125,000 sq.ft. is available for lease.  The project is expected to open during the fourth quarter of this year.  The company is currently developing Highland Grove in Highland, IN.  The 526,445 sq.ft. project will be anchored by Kohl's, Target, Marshall's, Jewel, Circuit City and OfficeMax.  Approximately 40,000 sq.ft. is available for lease.  The project is expected to open during the Fall.  The company is currently developing Eagan Promenade in Eagan, MN.  The 350,000 sq.ft. project will be anchored by Byerly's Foods, Barnes & Noble, HomePlace, OfficeMax and Pier One Imports.  The project is expected to open during October.  The company is currently developing Long Gate Shopping Center in Ellicott City, MD.  The 475,000 sq.ft. project will be anchored by Target, Kohl's, HomePlace, Safeway and Barnes & Noble.  Eight outparcels for restaurants and service tenants will also be constructed.  The project is expected to open during the third quarter.  The company is also currently developing Centennial Promenade in Denver, CO.  The 540,000 sq.ft. project is anchored by an already opened Toys 'R Us in phase I.  Phase II anchors will include Borders Books, Ross Dress For Less, OfficeMax, HomePlace, American Furniture Warehouse and Ultimate Electronics.  Phase II is expected to open during March 1997.

  For more information, contact the Opus Corporation at (612-936-4568).

 

McClinton & Company, Inc. is developing Premiere Place in Pratville, AL.  The 385,232 sq.ft. project will be anchored by a 200,072 sq.ft. Wal*Mart Supercenter which is expected to open during August.  Anchor spaces of 35,000 sq.ft., 25,000 sq.ft. and 15,000 sq.ft. as well as 50,160 sq.ft. of specialty store space is also being constructed with a scheduled delivery of Fall 1997.  Four outparcels are also available and the project has a future expansion area of 60,000 sq.ft.

  For more information, contact McClinton & Company, Inc. at (334-270-9653).

 

The Gustine Company is planning to develop a 375,000 sq.ft. power center in Easton, PA.  The project will be anchored by a home improvement center, a junior department store, a supermarket and a book superstore.  The company is planning to develop a 345,000 sq.ft. power center in Greensburg, PA.  The project will be anchored by Lowes Home Improvement Center and an electronics store.  The company is planning to develop a 240,000 sq.ft. power center in Hazleton, PA.  The project will be anchored by Lowes Home Improvement Center and Weis Supermarket.  The company is also planning to develop a 500,000 sq.ft. power center in Reading, PA.  The project, which will be located adjacent to Berkshire Mall, will be anchored by a junior department store, a discount store, a supermarket, a movie theater and a book superstore.

  For more information, contact Douglas J. Kyle of The Gustine Company at (412-381-1122).

 

Hapsmith Development Corporation recently began the site clearing for SuperMall of the Southwest in Irving, TX.  The 1.3 million sq.ft. project will have nine anchor stores as well as specialty store space linked in a one-story oval floor plan with four thematic entrances.  The tenant mix will include manufacturer outlet stores, traditional retailers, catalog outlet stores, value-oriented retailers and category dominant store.  The project is expected to open during Summer 1998.

  For more information, contact Sheila Lynch of Hapsmith Development Corp. at (214-953-0808).

 

 

Mergers & Acquisitions

 

New England Development (617-243-7000) recently agreed in principal to merge its property management and leasing businesses with those from the O'Connor Group (212-308-7700).  Under the agreement, the two companies will contribute their property management agreements to a new company that would be jointly owned by the two companies.  Ownership of the malls developed by the two companies are not included in the deal.

 

Buffets, Inc. (612-942-9760) and HomeTown Buffet, Inc. (619-546-9096) recently announced that they have signed a definitive agreement to combine the two companies through the merger of HomeTown Buffet, Inc. with a newly formed, wholly owned subsidiary of Buffets, Inc.  Buffets currently operates and franchises 258 Old Country Buffet restaurants while HomeTown Buffet operates and franchises 93 HomeTown Buffet units and two Roadhouse Grill units.  The agreement is subject to approvals by both companies' shareholders and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

 

Rock Bottom Restaurants, Inc. (303-417-4000) recently acquired a 50% equity interest in Big River Grille & Brewing Works.  Upon completion of the transaction, Rock Bottom will execute a 50-50 joint-venture development agreement with Big River for the development and expansion of additional restaurants.  Big River currently operates two restaurants in Chattanooga and Nashville, TN.  A third unit is expected to open this month at Disney's Boardwalk within the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, FL.  Rock Bottom currently operates 40 restaurants trading as Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery and Old Chicago.

 

Clearview Cinema Group, Inc. (201-377-4646) recently acquired 19 screens at four locations from Nelson-Ferman theaters.  The acquired sites include The Allwood Sixplex in Clifton, NJ; the Emerson Quad in Emerson, NJ; the Washington Triple in Washington Township, NJ and the Cinema 6 in New City, NY.  Following the acquisition, Clearview Cinemas operates 40 screen at 11 locations.

 

Fay's Incorporated (315-451-8000) recently entered into a definitive agreement to sell the inventory and store assets of its Paper Cutter Division, totalling 29 stores in NY, to The Party Experience, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Party Stores Holdings, Inc. for approximately $14 million in cash.  The Party Experience operates 18 Paperama Stores and 20 Party Experience stores in New England and NY.

 

 

Real Estate Professionals Making The News

 

Galbreath Company/Alexander Summer Division (201-984-1717) announces that Susan Schott has been promoted to executive vice president and Susan Walsh has been promoted to vice president of finance.

 

KLNB, Inc. (703-356-8230) announces that Michael Patz has joined the company.  He will specialize in leasing, sales and tenant representation in the Baltimore, MD area.

 

Hapsmith Development Corp. (214-953-0808) recently appointed Sheila Lynch to the position of vice president of corporate communications and leasing for the company's SuperMall projects.  In this role, Lynch will direct communications and leasing activities for the company's two SuperMalls--the SuperMall of the Great Northwest in Auburn, WA and SuperMall of the Southwest currently under development in the Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX area.  The company announced that Scott Fisher has joined the company as a leasing executive for the company's SuperMall projects.

 

R.J. Brunelli & Co. (908-721-5800) announces that Steven F. Albert has joined the company as a leasing representative.  In his new position, Albert will be responsible for leasing and tenant representation.  Most recently, Albert was senior vice president and assistant corporate secretary at Felsway Corp., parent of Shoe-Town where his responsibilities included developing strategy and policies for three retail divisions, controlling all real estate transactions and managing the liquidation of over 100 Shoe-Town leases.

 

The Linder Company (317-844-5313) announces that David Sheehy has been promoted to senior leasing representative.  His new responsibilities will include assisting with management of accounts and leasing agents as well as new business development.  The company also announces that Scott Gray has been promoted to vice president of leasing.  His new responsibilities will include recruiting additional leasing personnel and enhancing the company's training programs.

 

Richard Bowers & Co. (404-816-1600) announces that Richard English has joined the company as vice president in the firm's retail group.  English's responsibilities will include retail brokerage, tenant representation, land sales and space disposition.

 

 

Buyers & Sellers of Commercial Properties

 

Pyramid Brokerage Company, Inc. recently brokered the sale of three sites to Genuine Parts Company.  The locations include a pad site at a Wal*Mart store in Syracuse, NY; a site at State Fair Boulevard at Hiawatha Boulevard in Syracuse, NY and a site on Route 11 in North Syracuse, NY.  Genuine Parts Company plans to build 8,000 sq.ft. freestanding stores at all three locations.

  For more information, contact Larry Socia at (315-445-8501), Fax (445-2074).

 

Allen Fuller Co. Realtors has the listing to sell single tenant net leases for Eckerd, Best Buy, Good Guys, Hollywood Video, etc.  The company also represents investors in the market to acquire single tenant retail leases.  Preferred leases have upside as well as CPI or periodic increases.  Prices from $3 million to $50 million will be considered.

  For more information, contact David Mufson of Allen Fuller Co. Realtors at (305-532-0881), Fax (532-0882).

 

Auburndale Properties, Inc. recently acquired Key Plaza Shopping Center in Key West, FL.  The 226,800 sq.ft. project is anchored by Kmart, Byrons, Blockbuster Video and Radio Shack.  Leasing opportunities up to 40,000 sq.ft. are available.

  For more information, contact Michael Silvershein at (201-930-8800).

 

H. Stephen Kirschner, Inc. has the listing to sell a newly constructed 300,000 sq.ft. power center anchored by Best Buy, OfficeMax and Barnes & Noble.  The project is adjacent to a regional mall.  The asking price is based on a 10% cap.  The company also has the listing seeking an equity investor for a 100,000 sq.ft. supermarket anchored project currently under construction in the Mid-Atlantic region.  An investment of up to $2 million is needed for a 20% annual return.  The project is expected to open late this year.  The company represents a private investment trust in the market to acquire regional mall portfolios nationwide.  Secondary and tertiary markets will be considered as will individual "A" location and "A" grade malls at fair market values.  The trust acquires on a long term hold basis.

  For more information, contact H. Stephen Kirschner at (516-462-2200), Fax (499-3322).

 

 

Lead Sheet

 

Barnie's Coffee & Tea Co., Inc.

dba Barnie's Coffee & Tea Co.

Philip Jones

340 North Primrose Drive

Orlando, FL 32803-5889

407-894-1416, Fax 898-5341

 

Food

The 96-unit chain operates locations along the East Coast.  The stores, offering gourmet coffees and teas, occupy spaces of 1,000 sq.ft. in regional malls.  Growth opportunities are sought in FL, NY and Washington, D.C.

 

Checkers Drive-In Restaurants

dba Checkers Drive-In

Mike Dew

PO Box 1079

Clearwater, FL 34617

813-441-3500, Fax 461-0136

 

Food

The 505-unit chain operates locations nationwide.  The drive-through fast food restaurants occupy spaces of 875 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities.  Growth opportunities are sought in the Eastern region.

 

Chicago's Pizza Franchises

dba Chicago's Pizza

Robert McDonald

1111 North Broadway

Greenfield, IN 46140

317-462-9878, Fax 462-8551

 

Food

The 10-unit chain operates locations throughout IN.  The restaurants, serving pizza, sandwiches and salads, occupy spaces of 2,200 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities.  Plans call for one opening in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in either IL, KY, MI or OH.  The company is franchising.

 

Chubby's

Kris Edwards

11638 Fair Oaks Boulevard

Fair Oaks, CA 95628

916-966-7773, Fax 863-6778

 

Food

The 55-unit chain operates locations in AR, CA, NV, OR, VA and WA.  The restaurants, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner in a 1950's ambiance, occupy spaces of 1,200 sq.ft. to 1,500 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing markets.

 

Cousins Submarines, Inc.

dba Cousins Submarine Sandwich Shop

James Schrank

N83W13400 Leon Road

Menomonee Falls, WI 53051

414-253-7700, Fax 253-7710

 

Food

The 102-unit chain operates locations in AZ, IL, MN and WI.  The restaurants, serving sandwiches, soups and salads, occupy spaces of 1,500 sq.ft. to 2,000 sq.ft. in downtown store fronts, freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing markets.

 

Creative Foods Corp.

dba Burger King

Joe Della Monica

310 East Shore Road, Suite 207

Great Neck, NY 11023

516-466-3880, Fax 466-5680

 

Food

The 16-unit chain operates locations in NY.  The fast food restaurants occupy spaces of 3,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities, regional malls, power and strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing market.

 

Diedrich Coffee

Eric Lambiase

2144 Michelson Drive

Irvine, CA 92715

714-260-6785, Fax 260-1610

 

Food

The 33-unit chain operates locations in CA, CO and TX.  The stores, selling coffee and pastries, occupy spaces of 1,500 sq.ft. to 2,200 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities, regional malls and end caps of strip centers.  Plans call for 40 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing markets.

 

Donatos

dba Donatos Pizza

John Kraft

935 Taylor Station Road

Columbus, OH 43004-9538

614-864-2444, Fax 575-4466

 

Food

The 100-unit chain operates locations in KY, IN, MI and OH.  The restaurants, serving pizza, occupy spaces of 1,200 sq.ft. to 3,300 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Plans call for as many as 75 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in KY, IN, MI, NC, OH, SC and TN.

 

El Centro Foods, Inc.

dba Pizza Man "He Delivers"

Robert Ohanian

6930 1/2 Tujunga Avenue

North Hollywood, CA 91605

818-766-4395, Fax 766-1496

 

Food

The 52-unit chain operates locations in CA.  The pizza restaurants occupy spaces of 800 sq.ft. to 1,200 sq.ft. in strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing market.

 

Emil Villa's California Barbecue

Dave Price

2730 Cavanaugh Court

Hayward, CA 94545

510-786-0666, Fax 786-0984

 

Food

The seven-unit chain operates locations in CA.  The restaurants occupy spaces of 6,500 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and power centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing market.

 

The Jan Companies

dba East Side Mario's

Nicolas Janikies

35 Sockanosset Cross Road

Cranston, RI 02920

401-946-4000, Fax 946-4392

 

Food

The eight-unit chain operates locations in MA and RI.  The casual Italian restaurants occupy spaces of 6,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing markets.

 

Java Centrale

Shari Dorenkamp

1610 Arden Way, Suite 145

Sacramento, CA 95815

916-568-2310, Fax 568-1240

 

Food

The 35-unit chain operates locations in AZ, CA, FL, IL, MA, MD, NV, NY and TX.  The restaurants, serving sandwiches, soups, salads, pastries, coffee drinks, gourmet coffees and Italian sodas, occupy spaces of 100 sq.ft. to 2,000 sq.ft. in downtown store fronts, power and strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought nationwide.

 

Le Peep Restaurants, Inc.

dba Le Peep

Mitch Rhodes

4 West Dry Creek Circle #201

Littleton, CO 80210

303-730-6300, Fax 730-7105

 

Food

The 61-unit chain operates locations in AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, IL, IN, IA, KS, MI, MN, NE, NJ, NM, NY and Washington, D.C.  The restaurants, serving breakfast and lunch, occupy spaces of 2,500 sq.ft. to 3,500 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and strip centers.  Plans call for as many as eight openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place nationwide.

 

Legal Sea Foods, Inc.

dba Legal Sea Foods

John Olson

33 Everett Street

Allston, MA 02134

617-783-8084, Fax 254-5573

 

Food

The 13-unit chain operates locations in MA, RI, VA and Washington, D.C.  The seafood restaurants occupy spaces of 9,000 sq.ft. in downtown store fronts and regional malls.  Plans call for three openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in either MD, NJ, PA, VA or Washington, D.C.

 

Little King

Sid Wertheim

11811 I Street

Omaha, NE 68137

402-330-8019, Fax 330-3221

 

Food

The 50+-unit chain operates locations nationwide.  The fast food restaurants occupy spaces of 1,000 sq.ft. to 1,800 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities, regional malls, outlet and strip centers.  Plans call for at least 10 openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place nationwide.

 

Luby's Cafeterias, Inc.

dba Luby's Cafeteria

Carl Cheaney

PO Box 33069

San Antonio, TX 78265

210-654-9000, Fax 599-8407

 

Food

The 197-unit chain operates locations in AR, AZ, FL, KS, LA, MO, MS, MT, NM, OK, TN and TX.  The cafeteria-style restaurants occupy spaces of 9,500 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities, regional malls and strip centers.  Growth opportunities are sought in the existing markets.

 

Mack Enterprises

dba Ninety Nine Restaurant

Dana Doe

160 Olympia Avenue

Woburn, MA 01801

617-933-8999, Fax 933-0821

 

Food

The 38-unit chain operates locations in MA and NH.  The family style restaurant and pubs occupy spaces of 6,000 sq.ft. in freestanding facilities and power centers.  Plans call for eight openings in the coming 18 months.  Expansion will take place in the existing markets as well as RI.

 

 

Financial News...

 

Eckerd Corporation (813-399-6355) reported that its first quarter net income increased 29% to $39.4 million from $30.5 million during the same quarter last year.  First quarter sales were $1.4 billion, an 11.1% increase over last year's results.  The operating profit for the quarter increased $65.7 million from $59.5 million last year.  Comparable store sales increased 8.9%.  The company operates 1,715 Eckerd Drug stores and 517 Eckerd Express one-hour photo labs.

 

PriceCostco, Inc. (206-313-8255) reported that its third quarter net sales were $4.24 billion, an 11% increase over $3.82 billion reported during the third quarter last year.  Net income for the quarter increased 27% to $41.3 million from $32.6 million and comparable store sales increased five percent.  During the third quarter, the company closed five units.  The company currently operates 250 warehouses throughout North America.

 

Circuit City Stores, Inc. (804-527-4000) reported that sales for the first quarter were $1.61 billion, a 16% increase from $1.39 billion reported last year.  Comparable store sales fell 4%.  The company currently operates 386 superstores, five consumer electronics-only stores, 38 Circuit City Express stores and five CarMax Superstores.

 

Family Dollar Stores, Inc. (704-847-6961) reported that its third quarter sales increased 12.7% to $427.9 million, compared to $379.8 million during the third quarter last year.  Comparable store sales increased 5.8% for the quarter.  The company currently operates 2,522 stores in 38 states.

 

Genovese Drug Stores, Inc. (516-420-1900) reported that its operating profit for the first quarter increased 36.7% to $3.543 million from $2.591 million last year.  Net income for the quarter fell to $1.285 million from $1.543 million last year.  Total sales for the quarter increased 12.2% to $200.823 million.  Comparable store sales increased 7.8%.  During the quarter, the company opened one store and is planning to open as many as 10 drug stores during the remainder of the year.  The company currently operates 121 units in CT, NJ and NY.

 

Quality Dining, Inc. (219-271-4600) reported that its second quarter income from restaurant operations increased 90% to $7.5 million from $4 million during the second quarter last year.  Net income increased 83% to $2.1 million from $1.1 million last year.  Second quarter restaurant sales increased 130% to $55.4 million from $24.1 million last year, primarily from the addition of revenues derived from the company's 42 Grady's American Grill restaurants acquired during the first quarter of FY96.  Currently, the company operates 63 Burger King restaurants, 42 Grady's units, 21 Bruegger's Bagel Bakeries, 19 Chili's Grill & Bar restaurants and five Spageddies Italian Kitchen restaurants.

 

Arby's (305-351-5100) recently changed its corporate name to Triarc Restaurant Group and is planning to change the name of its Arby's restuarants to Roast Town.  The company plans to convert 50 corporate-owned Arby's units to Roast Town by the end of this year and the remaining 320 units in the coming year.  Several of the company's largest franchisees will convert their Arby's units as well.  Roast Town is the company's fast-casual concept that is co-branded by Zuzu's, P.T. Noodles and T.J. Cinnamon's.

 

 

Developers Converting, Expanding & Renovating Shopping Centers

 

CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. is expanding and renovating Twin Peaks Mall in Longmont, CO.  The 550,000 sq.ft. project, which is anchored by a 93,600 sq.ft. Joslins, a 75,000 sq.ft. Sears and a 50,904 sq.ft. J.C. Penney, will be receiving a 94,000 sq.ft. Dillard's Department Store and a 34,000 sq.ft., 10-screen United Artists Theatre.  The movie theater is expected to open during December, and Dillard's is expected to open during 1997.  In addition to the expansion, Sears, Claire's Boutique, Cyberstation, Gart Sports, General Nutrition Center and Trade Secrets recently completed renovations to their stores.  Other renovations at the mall will include new food court amenities, new entrances, new floors, new skylights, new landscaping and interior renovations.

  For more information, contact Jerry Sink, vice president of mall management at CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. at (423-855-0001), Fax (490-8662).

 

Belz Enterprises is currently constructing a 60,000 sq.ft. expansion at Belz Factory Outlet Mall-Lakeland in Lakeland, TN.  The addition to the 320,000 sq.ft. project will be anchored by a 20,000 sq.ft. Off 5th-Saks Fifth Avenue Outlet store, a 7,500 sq.ft. Footlocker outlet store and a 3,500 sq.ft. Danskin outlet store.  Construction is expected to be completed during Fall.  Retailers currently found at the project include Van Heusen, Bugle Boy, Corning-Revere, Hush Puppies, Bass Company Store, Casual Corner, Dress Barn, Hit or Miss and Rack Room Shoes.

  For more information, contact Andy Groveman, president of Belz Factory Outlet Mall Division at (901-762-7278).

 

Heitman Retail Properties is currently expanding The Falls Shopping Center in Miami, FL by 405,000 sq.ft., taking its current GLA from 450,000 sq.ft. to 855,000 sq.ft.  The project, which is anchored by Bloomingdale's and a 12-screen United Artists Theater, will be receiving a 230,000 sq.ft. Macy's as well as 175,000 sq.ft. of specialty store space.  Forty additional retailers will be occupying the new space, including several that are new to the Dade County area, FL and the U.S.  Opening its first U.S. store will be Mh Way.  Openings their first FL stores will be BCBG, Baby Guess?, Guess?Home, Giorgio Brutini, J.Crew, Rampage and WPBT Store of Knowledge.  Retailers coming to Dade County for the first time include Bebe, Coach, Crate & Barrel, Bailey Banks & Biddle, Enzo Angiolini, Eye-X, Garden Botanika, Jessica McClintock, Papyrus, Pottery Barn and Sweet Factory.  Other retailers occupying the new space include The Athlete's Foot, Barnie's Coffee & Tea, Bentley's Luggage, Capricorn Shoes, Carlton Cards, Chico's, The Forum, Gordon's Jewelers, Gymboree, Haagen Dazs, Johnny Rockets, Lechters, On The Shore, Palm Beach Confection, Regis Salon, Structure, Sunglass Hut, Surf City Squeeze, Talbots and What's In Store.  Current tenants AnnTaylor, Bath & Body Works, Laura Ashley, Limited Express and Mayor's Jewelers all have expanded their stores.  Other tenants found at the project include Williams-Sonoma, The Gap, Gap Kids, Victoria's Secret, Polo/Ralph Lauren, Origins, Mimi Maternity, Brookstone, Cache, The Limited, Bombay Company and Banana Republic.  The expansion is expected to be completed during October.  Future expansion plans call for the addition of two department stores occupying 320,000 sq.ft.

  For more information, contact Gerry Bovenkamp, General Manager of The Falls Shopping Center at (305-255-4570), Fax (235-7248).