Retail

PHOENIX-The Phoenix region's retail market is holding its own in tough times. Vacancy is up just a shade, says CB Richard Ellis in a Q3 analysis. Two regional malls opened with occupancies above 90%. Even 60 shuttered store were quickly snatched up.

MOUNT LAUREL, NJ-The township wants to bolster its non-commercial uses and has hired a top engineering firm to analyze the situation and make recommendations.

ORLANDO-Five days after a 40,000-sf store mysteriously burned to the ground in south Orlando, fire department investigators continue to probe and analyze the debris for clues that may show the pre-dawn blaze was purposely set.

ROSEVILLE, MN-Staubach Co. represents the retailer in the deal, which includes a signature in-store waterfall, soft woods, natural stone and ambient lighting in the 5,709-sf space's interior design.

CRYSTAL LAKE,IL-In addition to a federal suit involving plans in Hoffman Estates, homeowners near a site in this far northwest suburb object to plans for a 24-hour, 195,714-sf store, and the zoning board recommends denial.

SAN DIEGO-One of the city's largest private employers, and one of the nation's largest computer makers will lay off up to 25% of its work force and refocus its business.

BURLINGTON, WA-As the retail hub of Skagit County, the small northwest Washington town of Burlington between Seattle and Vancouver, B.C. is prospering. It is attracting new developments of all types in ever-increasing numbers--and traffic problems that mimic urban snarl.

MESA, AZ-A trio of investors has sold its 19,200-sf retail center at the corner of Broadway and Dobson roads in Mesa. A Tempe-based investor puts up about $1.5 million or in excess of $75.50 per sf for the 96%-occupied holding.