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02/22/2017 07:00 AMThe Guilford Commons, formerly known as the Rockpile, opened in November 2015 with a collection of new retailers. But since the spring of 2016, no new retailers have been announced, a trend that has continued into the New Year.
The shopping center currently includes The Fresh Market, Ulta Beauty, Michaels Craft Store, Bed Bath & Beyond, DSW, Charming Charlie, Petco, Hair Cuttery, and Verizon Wireless. At full capacity, the 139,000-square-foot shopping center will accommodate 12 to 16 retailers, depending on tenant space requirements, leaving about five or six slots left to fill.
In addition there is still the side parcel, which has been slated for a restaurant, left to fill. DDR Corp., developer for the project, Communications Manager Brandon Glenn confirmed there are still no new tenant announcements at this time.
“We are currently in negotiations with national retailers and restaurants to lease space in Guilford Commons,” he said. “Our policy is such that we do not disclose prospective tenant information in advance of final lease execution from all parties.”
Guilford Economic Development Coordinator Brian McGlone confirmed he has spoken with DDR Corp., adding that despite the lack of new retailers, current tenants seem to be doing well.
“Any of them would certainly welcome additional retailers, more visibility, and sure a restaurant—they think all of those things would contribute to more success of the plaza,” he said. “The plaza is busy on the weekend and different times during the day so they have been pleased with what they have seen.”
McGlone said marketing the shopping center has been difficult at times due to its location, but it has so far been a success.
“There are Guilford people that don’t even know what all is up there and then there are others who have become frequent shoppers up there,” he said. “It continues to take time and the good news-bad news is there is very little visible from Route 1.”