Summer negotiations next step in filling retail vacancies across campus

New vendors like Ben & Jerry's and Simsum may have made their debut on campus this semester, but despite University efforts, many retail spots on and near campus remain empty.

But officials say they are moving forward on several projects and will be in negotiations with some possible vendors over the summer.

"We are discussing business terms with a couple of strong candidates," said Lisa Prasad, associate vice president for business development, referring to attempts to fill the vacant spot in the Bridge: Cinema De Lux complex.

The currently unoccupied area in the theater, which opened its doors in the fall, is set to house a food and beverage vendor of some type, although a specific business has not yet been selected. Although Prasad hopes to negotiate a deal soon, she said she anticipates six to eight months of construction due to the "raw shelf space" in the building and does not foresee an opening before November.

"A lot will depend on how quickly the tenant will be able to do the work," she said.

A search is also underway for a vendor to fill the vacancy on the 3600 block of Walnut Street formerly occupied by Steve Madden, which closed its doors during winter break. The University is "targeting traditional soft retail," such as apparel, shoes and accessories stores, Prasad said. Although a contract has not been signed, the University hopes to fill the space by the fall.

Meanwhile, plans are moving ahead to expand College Pizza into the vacant spot adjacent to its current location on the 3900 block of Walnut Street, formerly occupied by Baskin Robbins.

The expansion -- which will include space for table seating, as well as additional storage and freezer space-- is slated to open this summer, despite early hopes for a spring opening.

The University is currently reviewing manager George Ballouz's design plans, which will then be sent to the city with his application for permits.

"The ball is in their court," Ballouz said. "I hope to open during the first week in July, if everything goes according to plans."

Ballouz said that a summer opening has both advantages and drawbacks, noting that while business may lag initially, the slower transition period will allow him to familiarize himself with the new operation.

"It's much better than opening during the busy season," he said.

The western end of campus will also become home to a new Bucks County Coffee Co. when the company opens a cafe in the Schattner Center, on the corner of 40th and Locust streets. The conceptual plan for the project was approved by the University, and the company is currently waiting for construction permits from the city.

Prasad noted the difficulty of enticing new tenants in the current economy. She said that the retail sector with the largest growth is discount stores, such as Target, Wal-Mart and home improvement stores -- "not what we are looking at for Penn."

Still, because "most of the tenants are very focused on being open for September," interest may increase during the summer, Prasad said.

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