retail

Retail vacancy continues to rise

Vacancy for retail space in Richmond rose to almost 7 percent at the end of the second quarter. And that could mean banks might soon start taking back some retail properties if tenants don’t start signing leases soon. Meanwhile tenants who do sign leases are getting bigger discounts than six months ago.

Outfitter opening at West Broad Village in November

A national outdoor equipment and clothing chain is opening a store at West Broad Village in November. Recreational Equipment, Inc., known as REI, announced this morning the 26,500-square-foot store will cover two floors and offer camping, climbing, cycling, fitness, and hiking gear. The location is the company’s first in Richmond; they have two in Northern… Read more »

Comic book dealer’s secret hideout

Surrounded by hundreds of thousands of comic books, Brett Carreras shows the crown jewel of his inventory. The restored copy of Batman No. 1, the first appearance of the Joker, is protected by a hard plastic case (Batman first appeared in Detective Comics #27).

Monday Q&A: What’s in store for retail?

Retailers battled through last year’s tough shopping season. Now it’s all about survival. The pullback in consumer spending has made the past six months difficult for retailers across the county, and Richmond is no exception. Negative sales. Decreased foot traffic. Slimmer margins. What can a retailer do? Some have turned to the Retail Merchants Association… Read more »