Belk is targeting approximately 30 stores for remodeling and expansion in 2012. The Greer store was being discussed as part of the company's 2013 capital program. Since Kohl's, Walmart Neighborhood Market and the upgrade to other facilities and parking lots is ongoing, Belk may move up the Greer store's timetable for remodeling.
Tractor Supply Company is investing in a new facade as Piedmont Plaza is getting a parking lot facelift. Kohl's will renovate the former Kmart and become Tractor Supply's neighbor late this year.
Greer’s Belk remodeling was projected in the 2013 corporate plans. However, major retail events in Greer may be changing that timetable. GreerToday.com first reported Kohl’s (Jan. 22) setting up as the centerpiece at Piedmont Plaza and Walmart putting South Carolina’s first Neighborhood Market (Jan. 18) in the Greer Plaza.
Greg Wilson, Belk’s vice president of real estate last month told GreerToday.com the company was aware of the retail landscape changing along the Wade Hampton Blvd., corridor and specifically at Greer Plaza. “We haven’t finalized our plans for next year (2013) but that’s (Greer) a store we’re interested in and that’s something we anticipate looking hard at and announcing later this year,” Wilson said.
Belk executives recently revisited Greer’s remodeling timetable in light of the fast-paced retail developments in the first-quarter. Ralph Pitts, Belk’s executive vice president, said the company was not prepared to make any announcements. Belk typically announces store remodeling after construction begins at its locations.
Belk executives describe its Greer location as a “tired” store that would benefit from remodeling to keep pace with its new neighbors and shopping centers.
Renovated stores typically feature a new modern shopping environment with the latest display fixtures, new tile flooring, ceilings and energy-efficient lighting, completely remodeled restrooms and fitting rooms. The décor and merchandise presentation will feature contemporary design to lure shoppers.
Belk reportedly invested $70 million on store remodels and renovations in 2011. It plans to increase that to $75 million this year and then almost double that to $130 million a year in 2013 and 2014. No new Belk stores have opened since 2007.
In November, Belk reported it earned a profit of $57.5 million for the first three quarters of its fiscal year, up from $32.5 million in the same period last year. Belk operates 306 stores in 16 southern states.
Tractor Supply Company, which remains open, is leading the face change at Piedmont Plaza. It is undergoing a new façade and signage upgrade and extending its outdoor and garden inventory to the side of the building. Harper Construction Company is renovating the 500-vehicle parking lot with new lighting, islands and landscaping. The new parking lot will be completed at Tractor Supply in April and the entire lot is scheduled for completion in August.
With the Neighborhood Market scheduled to open in the fourth quarter that provides an opportunity for Belk’s remodeling to coincide and the restructuring of the Greer Plaza parking lot.