STATE OF THE MALL:
As the city eases restrictions and stores re-open, I'm seeing the effects of poor sales from low foot traffic pre-Covid and the lengthy Covid closure. The following stores are closed permanently; GNC health products, Ricki's ladies wear, Flock chicken and IQ Foods. Most food court operators have returned and limited seating is available. These food court units have not re-opened; Freshii salads, Potatopia and Wiki Hut oriental. The minimum franchise fee for Potatopia was $150,000. Good luck to those owners. Some food units were doomed from the start with high menu prices, small portions and lack of sales or specials like Flock's $39. whole chicken and 2 sides.
Riocan received government rent subsidy support which allowed lease holders to pay only 25% of their total monthly lease, but if your monthly rent was $10,000. you were paying $2,500. per month for about 4 months with no income; not easy for "mom and pop" owners. Winners is open but sales are down. A new food outlet is going to take a chance at being profitable; Omni Palace Noodles and Grill (994 sq. ft.) between Basil Box and Five Guys Burgers. "The Shoe Company" is due to move into the old Dollarama space. Dollarama went from a cramped 6,745 sq. ft. space to a new 14,514 sq. ft. unit that's clean, bright, wide aisles, larger inventory and entrance from inside the mall or Sheppard Ave.
Riocan may take decades to recoup their more than $200 million investment. Currently, there are 21 units available for leasing and there may be more store closures if foot traffic and sales don't increase. It does not look good.