Weekly Perl: A Commercial Real Estate News Recap

Marc Perlof • July 11, 2025
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First Look: Save A Lot debuts new Hispanic-focused store concept


One of the largest discount grocers has unveiled another new store concept that aims to cater to Hispanic consumers.

As part of its strategic collaboration with Leevers Supermarkets, Save A Lot unveiled a new store format, called Save A Lot y Mas, in the St. Louis suburb of Overland...

A blurry picture of a clothing store with clothes on display.

Santa Monica Planning Commission Votes to Ease Downtown Business Restrictions


The Santa Monica Planning Commission has unanimously voted to recommend changes to the city's zoning ordinance that would permanently ease restrictions on downtown businesses, including eliminating prohibitions on dancing and expanding alcohol service options.

The 6-0 vote sends the proposal to the City Council for final approval, and comes as the city shifts its approach to economic recovery in its downtown core and Third Street Promenade area...

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Fatburger adds 40 stores to Florida pipeline


Fatburger is slated to grow its presence in the Sunshine State in a big way.

FAT (Fresh, Authentic, Tasty) Brands Inc., the fast-casual burger chain’s parent company, has announced a new development deal with existing franchisee Whole Factor Inc. to open 40 additional Fatburger locations across Florida over the next 10 years, including new areas such as Jacksonville...


The front of an aldi store with a sign in front of it.

First Look: Chuck E. Cheese launches new arcade concept for adults in 10 malls


Chuck E. Cheese has debuted a spin-off entertainment concept for adults who still love to play games.

The company has launched Chuck’s Arcadewhich combines a rotating mix of retro classics with the hottest new titles, including state-of-the-art racing simulators and immersive virtual reality hits...

Fast-growing lifestyle brand Eastside Golf opens first U.S. store


Eastside Golf, whose fashions are designed to be worn by golfers and non-golfers alike on and off the course, has marked a major milestone in its growth.

The brand has opened its first-ever U.S. store. Located at the Detroit Metropolitan Airport, Terminal A, the shop features a curated selection of the brand's apparel and accessories, including its signature Swingman sweatshirts, tracksuits, performance polos and bucket hats...

Retail merger activity surges with $112.7 million deal for Big 5 Sporting Goods


Big 5 Sporting Goods is being purchased by private equity firm Capitol Hill Group and Worldwide Golf in a $112.7 million deal that will take it private, part of a flurry of mergers and acquisitions involving retailers...

Family Dollar officially cuts ties from Dollar Tree

Family Dollar is officially a standalone private company with no ties to its previous parent company Dollar Tree, the retailer announced Monday.

The separation means Family Dollar will now operate under new owners—private equity firms Brigade Capital Management, Macellum Capital Management, and Arkhouse Management Co. Family Dollar will remain headquartered in Chesapeake, Va...

One of LA’s Best Thai Restaurants Is Expanding With Two New Locations


It’s gearing up to be an exciting summer for Holy Basil. Wedchayan “Deau” Arpapornnopparat’s Bangkok-style Thai restaurant is relocating from its original location in Downtown LA to the former Guerrilla Tacos space in the Arts District...

Erewhon opens Los Angeles-area store, plans more Southern California locations


Trendy grocery store chain Erewhon is expanding in Southern California with a new store opening last week and three more on the docket. However, one store affected by the Pacific Palisades wildfires remains closed...

Nordstrom to close two US department stores as retail industry faces rough patch


Nordstrom plans to shutter two department stores next month as the retail industry faces a challenging economy and shifting consumer behavior that has led to the nation's highest level of store closings since the onset of the pandemic...

Auntie Anne’s Unveils Modular Redesign Built for Gen Z, Growth, and Flexibility


Mike Freeman, GoTo Foods president of brands, says snacking should be an eye-catching experience. It should also be customized, create emotional ties, and be in a frictionless environment for millennial and Gen Z customers.

Those are the funnels the 1,200-unit Auntie Anne’s used to reimagine its store design...

By Marc Perlof July 4, 2025
Popular ice cream brand sold as nationwide chain closes hundreds of locations WASHINGTON — Rite Aid's bankruptcy proceedings have led to the sale of Thrifty Ice Cream. Hilrod Holdings was named the successful bidder to acquire the ice cream brand from the nationwide pharmacy chain, according to recently filed court documents. The $19.2 million sale was approved July 1 by a federal bankruptcy judge, court documents show...
By Marc Perlof June 27, 2025
Santa Monica’s Entertainment Zone launches, bringing crowds, cocktails and concerns over cost and control Santa Monica’s new Entertainment Zone debuted last weekend with music, crowds and margaritas to-go, serving a host of visitors on the Third Street Promenade during its opening soft launch. The pilot program, which allows patrons to carry alcoholic drinks purchased from approved restaurants while walking the three-block stretch between Wilshire Boulevard and Broadway, will run Fridays through Sundays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m...
By Marc Perlof June 20, 2025
Tariff Impact Hits Retail And Manufacturing Costs In Real Time New study tracks tariff impact on US retail and manufacturing costs using real-time pricing and import data analysis.
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