Spilled the beans in this other thread, but REI and Glimcher have been working on plans for a while.

Not sure if the deal is completely done but plans have been drawn for the property north of Anthropolgie.

Most likely part of a larger development.


http://www.okctalk.com/tulsa-suburbs/39836-rei-finally-coming-oklahoma.html

This is great news and it will make the area even more of a draw. If they are able to bring in REI, I can only imagine what other new to market retailers will eventually end up in the area.

Do you know if plans are still proceeding even with the sale of Glimcher? Brianna Bailey in Steve's chat today mentioned that plans could be on hold for a couple of years due to the sale. I am hoping that isn't true.

No way they are going to sit on that property for much longer. They paid a ton and the sale could actually help them more than anything.

Since their acquisition, they've brought in West Elem, Zoe's, Kendra Scott and several others. They've just about filled all the existing space in Classen Curve and the Triangle, and with high-quality tenants mostly new to the market.

Glimcher has great relationships with national retailers, hence the REI deal. I have not doubt they'll build something special on the vacant land. The only issue is one of Chesapeake's making, not theirs: There are really three separate developments that will never be very well incorporated.

REI's CEO, Jerry Stritzke, is a OSU graduate with good local personal connections.

REI names former Coach exec Jerry Stritzke its new CEO - Puget Sound Business Journal (http://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/blog/2013/08/rei-names-former-coach-exec-jerry.html)

This was on Steve's chat today:


Brianna Bailey 10:33 AM Glimcher is about to be purchased by Washington Prime Group Inc., so that throws the development plans into question

This was on Steve's chat today:

This is what I was referring to. Hopefully plans are still proceeding and she is wrong about things being on hold until after the sale.

Things are starting to heat up on this project.

I'm very sure REI is going to happen and they are working on bigger plans, which include leasing up Nichols Hills Plaza.

I suspect they are especially motivated now that Chisholm Creek is actively pursuing many of the same national and regional tenants.


We should get some announcements in the next 1-3 months.

Things are starting to heat up on this project.

I'm very sure REI is going to happen and they are working on bigger plans, which include leasing up Nichols Hills Plaza.

I suspect they are especially motivated now that Chisholm Creek is actively pursuing many of the same national and regional tenants.


We should get some announcements in the next 1-3 months.Are you still hearing TJ is being pursued?

Things are starting to heat up on this project.

I'm very sure REI is going to happen and they are working on bigger plans, which include leasing up Nichols Hills Plaza.

I suspect they are especially motivated now that Chisholm Creek is actively pursuing many of the same national and regional tenants.


We should get some announcements in the next 1-3 months.

Cool. I've thought it odd that we've been hearing REI radio ads on local stations...

Yeah I saw an REI tv commercial a few weeks back and thought they must be getting ready to come to OK. Super excited to see what happens with these properties because its a much closer drive for me than CC.

OKCTalk - Trader Joe's and REI coming to OKC (http://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=107-Trader-Joe-s-and-REI-coming-to-OKC)

Great news. I really do think that this area will become OKC's equivalent of Utica Square, perhaps (likely?) even better.

I've also heard that Glimcher wants to re-brand all the properties under one, unified name.

We should see things start to move in the near future, and they have big plans.

Makes me think that all this Tulsa before OKC talk was a little dumb.

Has Ruth's Chris every come to fruition?

Has Ruth's Chris every come to fruition?

Not yet.

I think it's still in the works.

I've also heard that Glimcher wants to re-brand all the properties under one, unified name.

We should see things start to move in the near future, and they have big plans.

Do you think a reworking of 63rd to not make it as much of a divider between the properties will be needed?

Never been to a Trader Joe's. What exactly is their value adding quality that makes people want to shop there? Is it basically just a direct competitor to Whole Foods?

Perhaps an elevated pedestrian walkway over 63rd between the properties if done right would look nice and bridge the properties (literally)

Never been to a Trader Joe's. What exactly is their value adding quality that makes people want to shop there? Is it basically just a direct competitor to Whole Foods?

They aren't a competitor to Whole Foods. Trader Joe's has the perception around here of being upscale but it really isn't. I don't think they really have a competitor and its something you have to experience to really understand what the hooplah is about.

Never been to a Trader Joe's. What exactly is their value adding quality that makes people want to shop there? Is it basically just a direct competitor to Whole Foods?

Trader Joe's is like OKC. People that haven't been there or have visited just to see "what the hype is about" won't get it. TJ's won't replace your entire grocery list, but the things that they do have are just excellent. So many different kinds of breads, snacks, spreads, and other quirky things. To me, Trader Joe's is really great when you're trying to find something unique for a party or just have a weird craving for something off the wall. Other people may use or see it differently, but that's the kind of stuff that I always liked about it.

In the end, the win about getting Trader Joes and REI is that we have more choices and better competition in the city.

OKCTalk.com shoutout via Thelostogle.com!

Oklahoma City is finally getting a Trader Joe?s! | The Lost Ogle (http://www.thelostogle.com/2015/02/06/oklahoma-city-is-finally-getting-a-trader-joes/)



Hipsters, pot heads and all lovers of cheap, delicious groceries rejoice. It looks like Oklahoma City is finally getting a Trader Joe’s!

In addition to the grocery store chain, REI is also opening an Oklahoma City location. Both developments will be in and around the 63rd and N. Western area.

We know this thanks to, uhm, the local message board OKCTalk. Yep, the always reliable internet message board is breaking local business news. And we wonder why the newspaper industry is failing and laying off employees.

Here are the details:



After much speculation, OKCTalk has learned that Trader Joe’s has signed a letter of intent to lease the old Crescent Market space at Nichols Hills Plaza.

Also, we’ve learned Recreational Equipment Inc., commonly known as REI, will open a store in a new development to the immediate south.

Both properties are owned by Glimcher, a national retail developer… Glimcher has been filling up Classen Curve, signing leases with West Elm, Zoe’s Kitchen, Kendra Scott and several others. The center is now very near full occupancy.

Although exact plans have yet to be revealed, the company is now turning it’s sights to filling the largely vacant Nichols Hills Plaza South and developing several large empty lots. REI will likely be part of a much larger lifestyle center on the south side of NW 63rd and west of Western. We have learned Glimcher is in deep negotiations with several other new-to-market retailers.

After much speculation, OKCTalk has learned that Trader Joe’s has signed a letter of intent to lease the old Crescent Market space at Nichols Hills Plaza.

Also, we’ve learned Recreational Equipment Inc., commonly known as REI, will open a store in a new development to the immediate south.

Both properties are owned by Glimcher, a national retail developer… Glimcher has been filling up Classen Curve, signing leases with West Elm, Zoe’s Kitchen, Kendra Scott and several others. The center is now very near full occupancy.

Although exact plans have yet to be revealed, the company is now turning it’s sights to filling the largely vacant Nichols Hills Plaza South and developing several large empty lots. REI will likely be part of a much larger lifestyle center on the south side of NW 63rd and west of Western. We have learned Glimcher is in deep negotiations with several other new-to-market retailers.

Okay, so OKC Talk left out some useful information like “When will this Trader Joe’s actually open,” but that’s fine, just knowing that we’re probably getting one makes me warm and happy like some microwaved Joe’s Mac N’ Cheese. I can’t wait.

Also, I guess it’s cool that we’re getting an REI. Now if only we can get some mountains, we’ll be good to go.

We’ll update you when more details are released.

Never been to a Trader Joe's. What exactly is their value adding quality that makes people want to shop there? Is it basically just a direct competitor to Whole Foods?

It's like Whole Foods and Aldi had a lovechild and Aldi has custody...

If haven't been to an rei before and you are in for a real treat. A kid in a candy store looks grumpy compared to me in an REI. Their private label REI is great stuff too.

Yes, Yes, Yes, I am happy that REI and Traders Joes are coming.

They aren't a competitor to Whole Foods. Trader Joe's has the perception around here of being upscale but it really isn't. I don't think they really have a competitor and its something you have to experience to really understand what the hooplah is about.


Trader Joe's is like OKC. People that haven't been there or have visited just to see "what the hype is about" won't get it. TJ's won't replace your entire grocery list, but the things that they do have are just excellent. So many different kinds of breads, snacks, spreads, and other quirky things. To me, Trader Joe's is really great when you're trying to find something unique for a party or just have a weird craving for something off the wall. Other people may use or see it differently, but that's the kind of stuff that I always liked about it.

In the end, the win about getting Trader Joes and REI is that we have more choices and better competition in the city.


It's like Whole Foods and Aldi had a lovechild and Aldi has custody...

Thanks guys. Sounds like its just quirky niche kind of place. And LOL CuatrodeMayo.

I'm trying to picture, where exactly in Tulsa is this being built?

If Trader Joe's has signed a Letter of Intent, shouldn't this go pretty quickly since they don't have to wait on construction? I could realistically see REI not opening until 2017…but Trader Joe's ought to happen well before 2016, shouldn't it?

Also…I think CuatrodeMayo won the internet today :-P

Trader Joe's could go fast, but much will depend on them.

These chains have a limited amount of personnel for finishing out the stores and there is always a priority list.

The good thing is the space is already cleaned out. Just a shell.

How does TJ plan to approach the wine situation, given OK liquor laws? Separate entrance?

How does TJ plan to approach the wine situation, given OK liquor laws? Separate entrance?

Perhaps. Not exactly sure of their plans but hope they find a way to still offer beer & wine because they have good offerings at very good prices.

If they go the "separate" store route, this may work to our advantage. If it's a full liquor store, they will be able to sell TJ's spirits in addition to beer and wine. Most TJ's only have beer and wine because they fall under the grocery category in most states, but their prices on liquor are compelling.

Thanks guys. Sounds like its just quirky niche kind of place. And LOL CuatrodeMayo.

Actually, it's *not* a niche kind of place, quirky maybe, but not niche. Do some searching on the forum and you'll find lots of posts by lots of folks that try to explain why they like it and some folks use it quite heavily (maybe not as their primary grocery store, although I think Sid (maybe it was someone else, thought it was Sid) said he did).

I'm trying to picture, where exactly in Tulsa is this being built?

Hahaha. Love it!

You certainly can use it as your only grocery store, as they have pretty much everything: dairy, produce, meat, staples and tons of prepared foods.

But the huge percentage of their products are their own label. You won't find Coke or Pepsi or many other name brands.

Also, they have a far fewer number of items than a regular grocery store, so you'll generally only find 10 types of ice cream rather than 100. Same can be said across all product types.

There are certainly somethings they just don't have but if you had one within walking distance, you could use it exclusively with little problem.


The biggest issue -- quite frankly -- are the crowds. All their stores are jammed and they are generally only open 8A to 9P, so there are many times when it's just not worth the hassle.

Fortunately for me, a new one opened up a mile from my house a few years ago and it's not as crazed as most the others. When I lived in Manhattan Beach, I just wouldn't go in because you often couldn't even find a parking spot. And the ones in West L.A. are worse.

But that's also a testament to how great they are.

In the near future, I'll do a detailed breakdown on what I buy and think is particularly good. It takes a while to understand the place but once you do, it's pretty flipping great. And many things are crazy cheap.

They are always adding new things and have a regular newsletter to keep you updated. By the same token, they also discontinue things... I used to love this Cuban Simmer Sauce (lime based) and I was heartbroken to find one day they sudden just dropped it.

It's my favorite retail store of any type, simply because what they carry are generally things you can't buy in another store or on-line.

Never been to a Trader Joe's. What exactly is their value adding quality that makes people want to shop there? Is it basically just a direct competitor to Whole Foods?Here are some pictures of the one in Dallas off of Preston from a couple weeks ago.

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7403/16271626090_a63032fdc8_c.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8620/16458113982_bf00e536c1_c.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7431/16433053896_a0c98db958_c.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7339/16271362998_17590dd4bd_c.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7429/15838984133_e752e84685_c.jpg

Just to be clear, it's nothing like Whole Foods IMO.

In fact, I can't stand Whole Foods. I had a gift card there for two years and finally used it on some beer I could have bought anywhere.

I have a big, beautiful WF right down the road and I've been in it twice. I'm in Trader Joe's at least once a week.

This was on Steve's chat today:

That was lazy reporting

Yes Washington prime bought glimcher. But it almost everyway it was a merger.

The new company is now called WP Glimcher and the glimcher ceo (mike glimcher) is the ceo and vice chairmen of the new company.

Same. WF's is closer but I go out of my way to go to TJ's. It's a real destination.

WF has no problem saturating urban markets it seems..

So with REI the only announced retailer (so far) for NEW build, I'm guessing the footprint won't be huge and will leave a ton of room for parking :/

In fact, I can't stand Whole Foods.Why? Whole Foods has a really cool vibe with a lot of cougars. They have really good fresh squeezed fruits and a great selection on fruits and vegetables. I go there nearly every weekday.

I agree with you though that TJ is nothing like Whole Foods. The only thing they have in common is that they sell food.

with a lot of cougars.
I should make a collage of every post you've mentioned cougars in it

I don't like Whole Foods because it's too bloody expensive and I'm not really that interested in organic.

I'm sure I'd shop there some if I lived in Oklahoma but out here there are much better choices IMO.

I can't argue with it being expensive.

I don't mind paying more but if I do I'll go to Gelson's, which is like the Nordstrom's of grocery stores.

Their prices are a little higher but it's like a regular grocery store, only incredibly nice and beautiful on the inside. The one nearest me has a Wolfgang Puck pizza place, so I order when I walk in and by the time I get through the checkout my pie is ready.

Damn. That is a nice grocer. Too bad they are only in SoCal. I'll probably shop there come April.

Pete, San D doesn't have Gelson's, so how does it compare to Bristol Farms? I find the baked items at Whole Foods far better than Bristol Farms, even though Bristol's is a very high end grocery.

Also, have you ever heard of CPK shopping around OKC for a location? I think it would do well and be another attractive franchise for the city.

Do you guys have Pavilions? Gelson's is more similar to Pavilions (a really, really nice Vons) than Bristol Farms, which is smaller and concentrates more on specialty items.

The Gelson's in West L.A. is one of the best celebrity-spotting places in all of California. You'd always see paparazzi in the parking lot.

Similarly (pardon the tangent and name-dropping), when I lived in Malibu there was really only one grocery store (a very nice Ralph's) and I saw more celebrities in there than when I worked on the lot at Paramount. :) Most aren't very impressive in person but the one who really blew me away -- and someone I had previously thought to be overrated beauty-wise -- was Jane Seymour. She's 63 now but even just a few years ago she was completely stunning.

We don't have Pavilions. We mostly have Albertson's; Von's; Ralph's; and Stater's Brothers. Some of the Albertson's are going to change to Hogan's out of Seattle. We have one Bristol Farms and 4 Whole Foods. Lots of Sprouts, Jimbo's, and TJs in the smaller grocery line-up. I like the deli at Sprout's since they offer Boar's Head, and the bakery at WF has great breads, but mainly I trade at Stater's Brothers as I think they have the best prices for basic food items. We shop at Bristol Farms only for a special occasion when we crave $35/lb dry-aged beef.

Pete - how much other retail will be added?

Pete - how much other retail will be added?

Not sure but there is quite a bit of space north of Anthropologie.

Also, I believe the old Kensignton Apartments site (on the west side of Grand and south of 63rd) will be housing; probably luxury condos.

Super off topic, but when things like this and Chisholm Creek get announced, I find myself getting irrationally annoyed at seeing my friends post OKCTalk's scoop all over social media. In my head I'm screaming "We've been talking about this for months and you're late to the party!" And yes, I realize how extremely weird that is.

Nobody really addressed my question, so I will post it again:

Do you think a reworking of 63rd to not make it as much of a divider between the properties will be needed?

^

Not sure what they can do since 63rd is the main E/W thoroughfare in that area.

It's always slammed with traffic.

Perhaps they could put an additional light and crosswalk at the drive that actually goes through NH Plaza South.

^

Not sure what they can do since 63rd is the main E/W thoroughfare in that area.

It's always slammed with traffic.

Perhaps they could put an additional light and crosswalk at the drive that actually goes through NH Plaza South.

I wasn't thinking narrowing it necessarily, I think four lanes and a turn lane are definitely needed but even adding a light like you said and redoing the street to make it obvious for pedestrians crossing. Maybe some stamped brick or even what they are going on 23rd, west of Portland at a few of the intersections. The problem is the back of NHP is so unwelcoming that people will probably just get in their car and drive over.

The area in yellow is what I was suggesting for a new light / crosswalk.

About halfway between Western & Grand and lines up with the drive into NH Plaza South:

http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/glimcher020615c.jpg

I'll never shop at Whole Foods. Never even been in one, but I know its just overpriced "organic" crap & have no reason to go. I'll probably check out Trader Joe's, but I doubt I become a regular. I'm far too basic of a shopper, I don't need anything fancy or new.

Also, PluPan, stop making Cougar jokes. They offend me. :tongue:

Breaking: Area journalists incredulous, snarky on Twitter.

I for one am very upset that REI is coming to the state. I spend at least a few hundred bucks there a year, now I'll have to pay sales tax :cuss2:

;) J/K I am very excited. I can finally stop paying for oversized shipping or driving to DFW. I am a little surprised by the location, but nothing wrong with it.

Edit: If anyone from the OTC is reading this, I always pay all required use taxes.


I'll never shop at Whole Foods. Never even been in one, but I know its just overpriced "organic" crap & have no reason to go. I'll probably check out Trader Joe's, but I doubt I become a regular. I'm far too basic of a shopper, I don't need anything fancy or new.

Also, PluPan, stop making Cougar jokes. They offend me. :tongue:

One word: Cookiebutter!

This was on Steve's chat today:


This is what I was referring to. Hopefully plans are still proceeding and she is wrong about things being on hold until after the sale.

As we've addressed before, this is the same company, just one of their "child" companies under the Glimcher corporate umbrella, this really means nothing as ownership basically stays the same and allow the corporate parent to fund the "child" corporation. I've personally met with local Glimcher management, and they are not concerned and said it can actually help. No worries at all. If anything, we should be worried about the artificial depressing of oil prices by the Saudi's and our energy companies doing mass layoffs.