There is a segment of the local population that is not too satisfied with the retailers that have been signed to the upcoming Promenade at Virginia Gateway—men.
The 300,000-square foot retail complex’s developer, the Peterson Companies, has already announced a slew of tenants who are slated to open in the fall, which include Francesca's, Soma, LOFT, White House|Black Market and Charming Charlie.
While there are two unisex retailers, Sleep Number and Grace Jewelers, the developer has yet to announce any male-oriented businesses.
While the anticipation mounts for the opening of new restaurants and the 14-screen movie theater, local male residents are not pleased with the current retail announcements.
“So far, it sounds like I am going to be spending a lot of time there and will be very bored,” Buddy Lint said.
This sentiment is shared across generations.
“I'll be there for the restaurants and movie theater when I'm home from college, but that's all for now,” George Mason student Konnor Fulk said.
Some speculate that the developer planned to concentrate on the female demographic, but they are still hopeful that they will have some options too.
“None of the shopping places excite me since it's all mostly for the ladies (which may be on purpose?),” Deron Blevins said. “Men shop too! Hopefully some cool places for us pop up.”
Furthermore, residents have plenty of suggestions for the Promenade at Virginia Gateway Developer to consider.
“I would love to see REI open up there. Otherwise, besides the movie theater, I am not seeing much that excites me. Some locally owned, non-chain restaurants would be fantastic,” Doug Goldring said.
Besides several requests for a Bass Pro Shops to open at the Gainesville shopping complex, many would be satisfied with male accessible fashion retailers.
“I'd love to see some young adult fashion places, like Express, a Nike Outlet, H&M and Forever 21,” Fulk said. “I'm pretty disappointed; I mean obviously women's fashion isn't exactly going to draw me there.”
Sovanna Hiep, owner of Grace Jewelers, suggests that men make the most of the opportunity to get to know their spouses.
“Don’t be intimidated to come in, enjoy the time with your wife and see what she likes,” he said.
Furthermore, the Peterson Companies indicated that they are continuing recruiting efforts and negotiating with potential tenants.
"At this time, we are not able to announce any new Promenade retail, although our leasing team is continuing discussions with several prospects," Joanna Caputi, Regional Marketing Director of the Peterson Companies, said.
In the meantime, Caputi directs male consumers to Virginia Gateway where they will find retailers that will accommodate them.
"Regarding men’s retail specifically, we do have JoS. A. Bank and Comfort One Shoes located at Atlas Walk, and DSW, Golfsmith and Sports Authority at Virginia Gateway," she said.
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