Is Downtown Retail "Stalled?"

It would be interesting to hear from actual downtown retailers on how business is and how they are holding out... I know that Broadway has seen a steady decline over the past 2 years in retail sales and foot traffic. I have also seen several retailers open/close on 6th in between grand and olive with no major success.

We'd love to open a destination store/showroom for our remade vintage line. But, I just can't make the numbers work for a clothing store. I'd love to hear from any specialty retailers.

For years large retailers didn't want to move into Downtown without a large residential population. Now we have more than double the residents living here but only have one market to shop at and we only have one major department store now. Why are they still using an old census report to determine growth? Yes, the economy sucks but why punish the people that have moved here? We all deserve to have multiple shopping options.

I find it funny they say that potential locations are odd shaped and don't have loading options. The former Robinsons location on 7th street had more than enough room for a large retailer. But sadly it was sold and gutted for office space and a Rite Aid. There are also the two large empty spaces at 7th & Fig now. They have the space and ample loading. What are these retailers and property owners waiting for?

Stop building bars, upscale eateries and nightclubs on every corner. Please consider the local community for once.

I'm inclined to agree with Eric's assessment that concrete progress is being made. Moreover, is is being made at a level which is authentically downtown.

I would modify Mark's comment that “Doing an urban store is a very different proposition.” Of course, downtown presents a challenge to traditional retailers who's business models rely on very specific algorithms. Downtown doesn't fit the formula and frankly, that's a good thing. Hopefully, bro's optimism will not dim and somehow he will find the right formula to open his place. That's the kind of retail spirit downtown needs.

Meantime, my hunch is L.A. Live will develop the requisite template needed for the traditional retailers. And that's just fine, too. Ideally, downtown will cultivate the best of all retail options catering to all the city's residents.

A Target at 7th and Fig would be perfect!

Greensmark writes:

WOW! Do I love this kind of article to get the peeps a talkin'!! I have said this before and will say it again: RETAIL SUCKS RIGHT NOW~ However, having said that, retail always follows the people. Not so much the "build it, they will come" but as Rich mentions, it has to have timing, product and value. Location doesn't hurt either. Target is an excellent option. But downtown should be known for having the really hip, avant-garde shops too. Much like SoHo, Chelsea and TriBeCa in NYC. By the way: have you ever since a Ritz-Carlton without fabulous stores located in the lobby? That is high end retail and those shoppers want to have parking (read:valet) and luxury goods. And have you seen Beverly Hills lately? Most of the stores there are closing!! Retail is gonna take a while yet.

RE: grocery stores; I have been telling management at Ralph's since they opened that they need to get it together with their help. I told them to visit Bottega Louie! Now there is service with a smile. I am so happy to have Bottega Louie. Good food, fresh bread and really nice workers.

Grnsmrk

In response to some of the comments:

We've been open for about 8 months now and are definately seeing an increase in customer flow and sales in the past few months. We are a men's and women's clothing store as well as an art gallery located on 6th at Spring st. Our store is located in a huge residential neighborhood in the Historic Core and we know that residents in the area are really looking for local businesses and retail that caters to them. You definately need to get creative to run a great business down here. Upper Playground and The Last Laugh, also on 6th st, are two other great examples of mixed use, creative retail spaces. We're beginning to see the domino effect that we've been waiting for. More businesses and retail bring even more businesses and retail, and it's a very welcome change!

From what we see, there are many retail spaces available in the area throughout the SB buildings, and according to their leasing office, they are willing to give amazing lease rates to serious businesses.

It's a great and unique community that we're in! If anybody is seriously interested in opening a new business down here, shoot us an e-mail at crackgallerydtz@yahoo.com.

First, um, Eric,... it's now Historic Downtown - not Historic Core. The name was changed quite a few years ago

Second, bromike666, contact me and I can help you set up your vintage clothing store. I might add having multiple vintage clothing stores is one of our most requested types of retail. We will also have at least 20 speciality clothing stores in Historic Downtown by the end of this year - and the good news is - they have all gotten strong walk in business the from the first week they have opened. And this is before before we have even started marketing this new boutique district.

Third, multiple businesses along the Main Street corridor are either expanding or opening a second location within blocks of their existing business due to how well their existing businesses are doing.

Fourth, by the end of this summer, every vacant storefront along Main Street between 1st and 7th should be leased due to the demand to be in a real neighborhood with a wide selection of owner operated businesses. And the last vacant stores along Main between 1st and 6th - have just been leased in the past few weeks and I have a waiting list of tenants waiting to move into that stretch of Main.

Lastly - Broadway is a totally different story and it will take a couple years to reorient itself as a street with retailers that deliver quality products at affordable prices for both its existing, though declining, shopping base, and the newer residents of the greater Downtown area. But a number a major stores are now considering the street - including users up to 100,000 feet.

And if anyone else is interest in starting a business in Downtown, I can be reached at bradywestwater@gmail.com or at 213-804-8396. And my services are - as always - totally free

we (raw materials) have been open about eight months as well (plus a couple of months of ramp-up), and our business is growing at a comfortable pace. but we haven't been around long enough to say much about long-term trends.

i would encourage anybody interested in opening up a business in the area to take up brady on his offer, and feel free to contact us to talk about our experiences. i expect that all of the retailers and restaurant owners in the area would be happy to do the same.

The only growth area of downtown is South Park. Its pretty obvious with 2 30 story residential towers, lofts and a 1000 room hotel to open in the next 6 months to a year.

The best promise of retailers is the space on Figueroa under Concerto. Plent of foot traffic. There was an article last week, I think in the Times, where the developer Astani said a bike shop and another retailer have reserved space there. At least theres foot traffic there.

Wether we like it or not Staples and the convention center drive all the growth in downtown. Bringing in 20,000 people to an area with expendable income is going to remain the target market. i.e. bars and restaraunts (with over priced drinks). But if there was a Target nearby people might stop before or after an event!

Crackheads & Brady,

I sent you both an email. Would love to drive over and pick your brains.

Yes, Ralphs customer service sucks, I shop there every week, they always have everything I need, but the workers just don't feel engaging, they are afraid of talking to people or maybe too busy trying to do their job, whatever it is, it's cold.

LA Live, I'm never setting foot there, it's all just "plastic corporation made" feel. And I couldn't care less if TVics, is there is too far away, they made a big mistake. And don't care either if they are building a new megatheater I will still keep going to the little Laemmle's (I know it's pronounced laemmel but I like to call it laimlies just for gigs, giggidy!) where the folks know me by name and know exactly what I want from the concession stand even before I order...

Obviously a Rite Aid within 3 blocks from another it was a very stupid idea from the beginning and has nothing to do with the recession, I bet you three fingers that if that location was leased by a Tvics, joes or even those yappy peeps in Austin (WF) would have been quite a different story.

Now WTF is up with the farmer's market on Pershing Square? The hours of operation are 10a - 1p Are you kiiding me? I wake up at noon! Once again it feels to me that they are focusing and targeting the shee... er, office people...

By businesses doing this I feel almost as if they are giving me/residents the finger. Fine, you want to cater ONLY to office people, then GFYS!!! And I'm not coming back!!! (we all know I'm just bluffing here, I'll wake up early next Thursday and get there, but you all get my point).

To be honest this is the first FM that I visit and don't know if they are all the same, but I certainly hope not.

About the people of the electronic stores on Broadway, I stopped buying there many years ago when I realized that they overprice stuff just to make it seem as if you were getting a good deal. Beware and DO NOT buy there unles you're doing it for the "experience". Ebay is a eon times better, even with shipping fees (same goes for the pawnshops in hollywood but that's another story).

To finish I will recommend 3 small places;

1.-The thai food eatery on Hill, between 7th and 8th on the east sidewalk, the duck is very good and you can get a coconut with it.

2.-On the mall located in front of the Chinatown metro station on N. Spring and the corner of College, as you enter the mall the first store on the left sells a big cup (10oz, 20oz? whatever is the largest size of the styrofoam cups) of freshly squeezed sugarcane juice for only $5 dlls! The owners are a senior couple and they are very cute, their english is quite limited though (even cuter).

3.-The bakery almost on the northeast corner of 6th and Broadway has tortas of ham, tuna, turkey and carnitas for only $3.5! and even better they add avocado!!!

This is Rob with Pussy & Pooch, a specialty pet retailer on 6th and Main. I’ll shed some perspective from a retailer.

The woman who wrote the article, did come into our store as part of her research for the article. We’ve been open now for almost 1.5 years and have seen 6th street blossom-- it’s very exciting to see the potential. The addition of the Upper Playground, Crack Gallery, etc have been helpful to round out the offerings on the street and provide actual shopping options. (so thank you to them)

However, downtown residents are far from perfect and need to change “their shopping mindset” before we get more businesses to come and invest in downtown. I would like to preface my comments below that if the goal is to get more businesses downtown, then we need to change our shopping habits in order to attract them.

The article is focused on “big brands and large retailers”, which seems to be the focus across most articles and efforts of the Downtown BID and other orgs. I agree with Jan Perry’s comment about how our focus needs to change towards “smaller-scale projects.” Everyone is so focused on getting a Target or Trader Joes, etc. Who wouldn’t want these amazing stores, I certainly do. But in order to attract these stores, we NEED TO SHOW SUPPORT TO THE EXISTING STORES, and that includes independents.

We invested in downtown based on the downtown survey numbers 2 years ago. If 40k people live here now, they are definitely not all shopping downtown. I’ll give you an example. There are people “who live in the Santa Fe Building and PE Building” (right above us or beside us), who STIILL drive 20 minutes to Petco (and park across the street and lug a heavy bag of food all the way to their apartment) to buy sawdust for food, instead of walking 10 feet to buy Pet Food and SUPPORT a local business. It is still unbelievable. Despite what some people think, we are not a fancy store - we are an every day food/supplies essentials store that happens to have nice aesthetic, unique products & shopping experience…Not to mention the dozens of free community events we host to make downtown a better place. Yet many downtown people, who are regular and vocal advocates of growing business downtown, still support Petco or Target instead of a local business that has invested in their neighborhood and community. I don’t want to call out any individuals as they have the right to shop where they want, but if you are going to do a daily dosage of spewing downtown “needs more”, then it all starts with each and every one of us. “Where are you buying your pet food?” Despite what some think, some of our loyal customers are the “financially challenged”, but they truly believe in living downtown and walking to the store to shop for their needs.

I’m not trying to guilt people on where they should shop, but if we truly want more businesses to come to downtown, then we must all change “how” we shop and truly support the local businesses. Stop focusing on Target and these large deals. We need more great shops (like the new Baby Cakes coming on 6th) that add flavor and life to our area. I’ve read several “negative” comments on existing downtown businesses. We need to stop with the harmful tone and start supporting our local business. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but if you want more businesses to come here, we need to focus on the bigger picture.

To answer the questions on the climate of retail business, we’ve noticed a slight upswing in spending in March and April. For us it has been steady because our biggest selling items are food/essentials. Our pets need to eat. I do expect the numbers to grow slightly month over month the rest of the year. Overall, the climate has been positive and everyone who shops at the store loves us and verbally expresses their appreciation for our presence. That is unique to downtown and we love this praise. However, we need more people like this and this is where the growth comes from. This is how we’ll get more businesses to invest in us.

I welcome any direct feedback or assistance in efforts for new business downtown. (rob@pussyandpooch.com)

I've lived Downtown for a few years now, and I've given up on Trader Joe's and Target, etc. coming to our neighborhood. No matter how much it's discussed and analyzed, these stores still have cold feet. I've decided not to hold my breath any more and have found other places to shop, and I'm doing just fine. My guess is that, once they "get it", they'll all rush in. Downtown feels so different nowadays that I think we've passed the tipping point. We have one of the best demographics in Los Angeles right now, so if they come we'll shop. If they don't we'll spend our money elsewhere. I'm happy with the way small businesses are growing organically for the moment. At some point, we'll lose the small-business family feel, so let's just enjoy it while it lasts.

Rich, I appreciate the feedback (store window suggestion - we have thought about this), but you should come into the store to really learn what we are all about. The pawbar is only one small portion of the store and meals start at $2. Our self serve bathing starts at $12. Our services are very inexpensive. However, the store is focused on health and well-being of pets. You’d be surprised at the amount of inexpensive items that we carry.

We don’t sell much food on our website, we have dozens of food brands is in the store. The food you referenced is dehydrated raw at 10 lbs that really makes 43 lbs of premium food. We do sell a 30 lb bag of kibble at $39. (There are many food options in this range.) Compare that to Petco, we are very reasonable. We’ve done a lot of price comparison shopping at other stores. Just like other folks who make the same mistake, they look at our nice asthetic and see one collar for $100 and assume we are fancy. There are collars for less than $10. Our selection varies from low to mid to high price. Sorry we made the place look too nice, my wife has a design background!

We respect people’s budgets, that’s why we carry many options. We listen to feedback and have made many changes. But we can’t get that feedback if people don’t speak up or come in to properly investigate. Just like other businesses downtown, we can’t support them if we don’t properly investigate their food, service, product or whatever. These business owners have taken the time to give us something special. We owe it to them to give them the time to learn about them. I’m not trying to center you out, but you provided a good example worth illustrating to my previous points. Many people used to think this way before they got to know us and the store. Thanks for the feedback.

What's the nearest Target to USC?

That would be in Culver City @ Jefferson / La Cienega. There is another in West Hollywood @ La Brea / Santa Monica but that's a little further.

Greensmark writes:

Glad folds are making comments about this. I will certainly take Brady up on his offer. Couple of things I'd like to mention in response: As with all things in Downtown, we should and need all range of prices and venues. From LA Live to Main Street. I know that things are going to change rapidly once Concerto, The Ritz and the "Waterfall" tower opens (that's the condo tower at 9th and Flower). There will be more street level space to house the retail. But just as I mention in my last post; Downtown needs all price points to make it work. I mean how many tee shirts do you need?

As for Pussy and Pooch: UGH! I tried to be a customer there. It was impossible. Make no mistake when they say they sell dog food! THAT IS EXACTLY ALL THEY SHOULD DO. I have been making my own dog's food since the dog food scare several years ago, so I have no need for a dog food store. I was interested in the fun and unique items that they carried. But beware: they don't stand behind they products. Absolutely no customer service when it comes to product purchases. I, personally will never shop there. Shame really! I can my boys unique things on my travels.

This is an exciting time to be Downtown. I tell everyone I come in contact with about living here. Just hang in there y'all. You ain't seen nothing yet!

Grnsmrk

Greensmark, Thank you for your comments about downtown, most were very insightful and relevant to this article and conversation.

Unfortunately your personal attack on us is not relevant to the conversation and a waste of everyone's time to read. We know who you are. You are one out of the thousands of people we have worked with that was unhappy. I will not waste everyone's time to rehash your personal situation and I will remain professional. You can't please everyone and believe me, we tried over and above with you. If you really want to rehash this experience, call me at the store. But please do not waste everyone's time with this non-sense.

If you read our comments above, downtown retailers need more support, not harmful and personal attacks. We need to act like adults. I'll say it again, if you want MORE businesses to come downtown and invest in the community, you need to support the businesses here to prove concept so more will come. If you spread personal agenda, that harmful and not helping the greater good.

We are here to help downtown grow and to share real feedback from a business owner who's invested in the community. That's why we volunteered feedback. If you want other business owners to volunteer their valuable feedback (which we need), then please keep your personal attacks to yourself.

When potential business are considering to open up downtown, they will do their research, and they will read childish comments like this and NOT open downtown. We need to show them how valuable downtown is and that we are all wonderful people. Do you really understand what's at stake here? Do you really understand how hard Brady and others work to attract new business? We need to help them not hurt them.

I have a great idea for a store but I need help putting it together. Don't want to say what it is on this blog but trust me - it's something everyone wants and needs and will be a big hit. Never had a store before so I need a little help. Anyone out there please?

Greensmark writes:

I'm sorry, Pus, that you felt that it was a personal attack. It was not meant to be such. To the contrary; I was simply stating the facts as they happened. Firstly, I find it hard to believe that I am the ONLY one that has EVER had a complaint about your store. However, I. too, am a small business owner in a service business. I know what customer service is all about, I bend over backwards as you state you did too. But I also do whatever it takes to make the customer happy. Did you ever hear the saying: The customer is always right? One thing you are right: why bore these folks with details. Details are for Government agencies and folks that water board. Opps, was that personal. My bad!

More to the point, Pus, I agree that we all need to support downtown businesses. But just as Oscar writes that he prefers Laemmel's and Rich goes to PetCo, we all have the right to visit and support business down here that will, indeed, live up to the promise that is here.!! That's all!

Grnsmrk

Well...

now I know where not to get my pet stuff..

and it isn't because of Greenmark's criticism.

i'm a native new yorker who lived in bucolic mount washington for almost 12 years before moving downtown in may of 2005...i couldn't afford what i wanted in venice, so it seemed like a good time to test these churning urban waters. the first four months were spent in a tiny, but cool, interim apartment at pico and fig. my pacific electric loft was habitable that september. there was no local supermarket, no cool little cafe in my building or great diner in the next block, no friendly watering holes for my dog. i got used to shopping in my old neighborhoods, dreaming of a trader joe's around the corner, looking forward to the day when the immediate area sprouted every one of the many promised retail venues and i could save on gas, and -- even more precious than fuel -- my time.

the only good restaurants within walking distance were pete's and banquette...but you rarely walked (and you NEVER walked alone, not even in daylight). it was okay, i'm a city girl; i enjoyed being at the vanguard of the downtown renaissance, it reminded me of soho and tribeca, just before...

for the most part, i still love living here...with one huge exception: i'd prefer to see less bars on heavily residential streets. i can't believe they're opening YET ANOTHER drinking establishment -- a tequila bar -- across the street from my loft, which is 3 stories above cole's and the association. the drunken, screaming, shouting customers don't give a thought to the residents trying to sleep, or work, or whatever. most of them come from other parts of LA to partake. it's good for the business owners, but it's bad for us: the owners unconscionably do not enforce a code of respect for their neighbors, treating the block on which i live as if it's completely uninhabited by rent-paying residents. the police have suggested we deal with that issue through local government agencies; if nothing is done to alleviate the problem, i'm quite sure we will be doing so very soon.

if we are to successfully create a truly cohesive neighborhood, one in which couples might actually choose to raise children, or from which older people won't flee in fear, we need more services and retail reflective of those possibilities. if downtown is to survive and flourish, we cannot afford to arrogantly disenfranchise any segment of society -- especially if they are willing, nurturing participants in the growth of what could be the heart that is missing from this sprawling creature of a city.

as for the inappropriately-maligned pussy & pooch: from the time they opened, janene and rob and lee and gary have been integral in creating a welcome environment for their neighbors. my exceptionally discerning dog, lulu, cannot pass their door without dragging me inside. there are those cynics who would say she's sniffing around for a little gratis treat (be honest -- who among us turns down a free cookie?). but i know my dog: if she doesn't like the people and the vibe, she's outta there...and she absolutely WILL NOT return. in this, i trust her more than anyone, and tend to follow her lead.

What exactly is the going rate for the rents in Downtown retail currently. I have seen some of the spaces in the SB buildings be almost $3 a sf which is very high for an area like downtown.

Caryn - How can anyone offer to help if they don't have a clue about the business idea. Is it in the food industry, clothing, retail, etc.....?????? You may get more responses if people had an idea of what you wanted to do.

I'm scared of people who anthropomorphize their dogs.

I spoke to the SB retail guy, he said he was willing to give around 400 sq ft for around $1000 to serious business only! (lease terms: 3+3)

I'm more afraid of people who treat human beings like animals.

I spend quite a bit of money at various restaurants all around Downtown, but, there is nowhere else for me to spend my money. My point is, some people are just not going to throw money at businesses just because "you need to support local businesses." There's no way I'm ever going to even go into Pussy and Pooch becaue I don't have a pet.

I don't own a dog, a cat, or a car, and I am not in the market for another CD player. This is why I only shop at Rite Aid, Big Lots, Grand Central Market, and sometimes Office Depot. I would like a Borders Books, a decently stocked newsstand (in English, please) and a real movie theater.

Scott – you bring up a great point. Sometimes “supporting” retail does not necessarily mean spend money. We have many “visitors” to the store who don’t have pets, but have visited just to check us out. (sometimes during Art Walk since they are walking by. We get hundreds of visitors during Art Walk.) They don’t buy anything because they don’t have pets, but they’ve seen it and then tell their friends or co-workers who have pets.

So part of our growth as a community is “awareness” of what’s here and helping to spread the word. I encourage all of our staff to visit all the stores in the area so when customers ask for referrals, we know where to send them. For the most part, I think residents in downtown do a better job of this than other areas in the city or country.

Caryn - If you (or anyone else) are serious about starting a business here, there’s a free organization that has been very successful at helping to find locations (negotiating rent, etc).
http://www.downtownlaretail.com/

Jeanne?sp? - I just stopped by your store to see you but you weren't in. I'm thinking of opening up a store in the space in SB Main next to the parking lot on Main Street. Right to the left of the side door to the building. It's going to be a large collection of mid-century modern furniture, antiques, collectibles, vintage clothing, and I will have a local artist's on the walls and be open during artwalk. What do you think? I just don't have the start up money for first and last but Barry Shy will let me have the space for half price. Anyone interested in being a silent partner or putting up the money as an investment with interest? I know it will be a big success and much needed down here. Unfortunately, all my money is tied up in my inventory. And when I moved here 3 months ago that cost a lot. Plus I spent about $5,000 on a dog and cat vet bills and they died just before moving here so I've been tapped out.

Hey Q? What kind of business are you looking to do?

coming to the corner of second and spring this summer. 12000 sq ft gallery/showroom/event space. get ready LA

I am thinking Gelato Ice cream. Very similar concept and look as spring for coffee, but with ice cream.

There is already a gelato or some sort of ice cream and dessert shop on spring at 6th. They have pretty fancy construction going on and the workers there told me that they should be open in a month or so and have everything from desserts and coffee to gelato.

Ed Hardy’s store is the biggest retail disappointment I've seen happen downtown in the 15yrs I've lived here. The great independent boutiques are wonderful and very convenient, but Ed Hardy? come on now this is not hollywood.

Not that I wear it, but the Ed Hardy store is one of the best attempts at a decent looking store downtown. I love this neo-snobbery of "this is not Hollywood" -- you're right. It's an economically depressed village undergoing an achingly slow revitalization wedged between the 110 and Skid Row.

Shopping downtown is undesirable. Let's not pretend that shopping is great. There's little that's unique or interesting downtown - yet -- and until there is, you should be happy that the Ed Hardy crowd is at least coming downtown to shop, cuz they ain't coming here to buy anything else except $ 5 socks and dubious jewelry.

"The great independent boutiques" -- uhhh, yeah. The pot clinic?

i absolutely agree with "eh sorry". its nice to be snobby and act like downtown is everything from artsy to authentic but who really likes the downtown the way it was 5 years ago. Only the people that are afraid that the rents are going to increase.

There was graffiti everywhere and bums sleeping on every corner. That Ed Hardy store hopefully will spur more investment in downtown. I just hope that we dont keep getting business that are way too similar, for example all the cafes. I just hope that there will be other casual dining options soon. But no matter what, any investment is better than no investment and empty buildings, upstairs office space, and empty retail.

well I have to agree with Johnny on this one. What exactly does an Ed Hardy store bring to an "economically depressed village" downtown? um $80+ for a t-shirt, how does that help a person living down here? and how does a person buying that $80 shirt help the village?

As for the debate on the old downtown the new downtown the fact is downtown LA will not become what all the developers wish it to be. I've seen the ups and downs and so has everyone who has a vested interest in making downtown a livable community.

However SOHO is not Tribecca and Willamsburg is not Manhatten. Downtown LA has it's own identity, and it isn't silverlake, echo park, south central, venice and especially not Hollywood. Ed Hardy has it's place and it's not in the Historic Core (yes I say Historic core, cause thats really what it is). Maybe it would have been better placed over in Nokia Center right between Lucky Strike and the Yardhouse, because really, the people who will shop at Ed Hardy are the same people who will patronize those places.

What I don't understand is why so many people want these corporate establishments in their community to make them feel as if it is really a community with everything for them. Does having a Target in your back door make this a better place to live? does having all these high end stores make this community a better place? If Broadway became a Michigan Avenue (Chicago) would it be a better place to live, would it make it more of a community?

We have everything a person needs to live, we have little corner stores, rite aids, grand central market and Ralphs that sell everything you need, we have the fashion district for clothing (yes there are stores there that do sell real designer clothing), we have the toy district which is the biggest Target in the world, it spans blocks and last we have lots of great places to eat and socialize with our neighbors new and old.

Why when people talk about revitalizing downtown do corporate establishments always become the main area of focus?

Who's shopping on Spring anyway?

Crickets.

There's nothing to buy on Spring.

Instead of talking about Trader Joes and Target, what about interesting thrift stores to at least give the American Apparel legging victims some alternative? The Fashion District isn't fashion: it sells garments, not fashion. There is a difference.

What's missing? Advertising firms. Creative businesses. Destinations. Nightlife that doesn't get castrated by dim-minded loftlivers who didn't do their researchers.

"We have everything a person needs to live" - well, do we? We're talking needs vs. wants. And people who travel and see what other downtown-like areas already have are growing impatient.

We don't even have a decent newspaper. We have a bird cage liner.

Greensmark writes:

Right On, Sam! We don't need the corporate establishment to make Downtown vibrate and alive. It is worth trying all the places you mention, BEFORE we start asking for all the things you can find in Hollywood, et.al. In fact, if we were ALL to change our mind set and realize that what will make Downtown THE destination for shopping and dining and entertainment is to have things here that are not found all over town. You mention traveling: My partner and I have always found it sad that when you do travel and experience a different city's vibe, you can't! Because the same stores are found everywhere. Let's make Downtown different from the rest by having shops that are not the norm; not the usual. You'd be surprised how excited people (read: shoppers) get when they discover a new destination to shop.

And Manhattan brings up a good point as well: We don't even have a city newspaper that is worthy of a major metropolis. Then again, that is more about the internet and the way we get our news. Most of which sucks anyway.

Grnsmrk

I love living downtown, so let's start off with that. I worked here in the '80s and it made me very sad; those who saw it then know what I mean.

In the main, I agree that we have almost everything we need to live here. I walk to Rite-Aid, the post office, the gym, the library, my dentist, my doctor, the music center, the old theaters, the Laemmle Grand on Fig, Staples Center, my voting site, etc etc. Produce is fresh and inexpensive at Grand Central Market or the local weekly farmers' market, and fresh flowers are beyond cheap in Macy's Plaza on Thursdays and the Flower Market any early morning. I take my son to the Grand Hope park to play. If I want a fancy meal, I can walk to the Water Grill. If I want something earthier, Noche Buena in Olvera St. No frills, then IHOP or Pantry or Phillipe's. Clifton's anytime! or Empress Pavilion dim sum or Ebisu for Japanese food. And so on.

The Red, Gold, and Blue lines take me most places I want to go. That said, the infrequent times I drive out of downtown, I usually work in a stop at Target for household goods less expensive than Ralph's and Rite-Aid (and clothes that are easier to find and try on than a day spent in the garment district - I'm not a clothes shopper), or TJ's or Jon's for groceries less expensive and more expansive than Ralph's, or IKEA for, well, you know (and frozen meatballs!).

So I don't think it's validating downtown as a place to live to have any of them closer by: it just makes things more convenient -- for me, and, apparently, for a number of other people. I'd have to drive less, which is always good, for me and the other people on the freeways, as well as the air. It doesn't have to desecrate the Historic Core: down in South Park among the new high rises is fine.

Greetings! I am the type of person who skulks around the blog sites, but never chimes in. However, you asked for input from retail owners so here goes:

As a business owner, I can certainly report that retail sales for Pet Project have been on the increase since we opened our doors in 2006. We currently do not have a street-level storefront, but work out of a small warehouse delivering to downtown residents and workers, high quality pet food at discounted prices. I can also state that since this economic downturn and the increasing cost to live in Downtown, I have had a few of my customers move away to other ("more affordable") parts of LA, and those loyal customers who experience a job loss or another financial hardship, I am grateful to be in the fortunate position to be able to set up a payment plan or other arrangement for them. This gives me great satisfaction in knowing I can help my customers and continue to keep my income steady.

I believe that small businesses are the soul of a city and do my absolute best to support my community. I shop regularly at the market in Little Tokyo - fantastic prices on fresh produce, rent movies from OBDVD, buy my few art supplies from Raw Materials, eat at local restuarants and socialize in the local pubs. As a matter of fact, last night I had an interesting conversation with a group of people who all agreed that we almost never leave downtown because of all of the wonderful retail/restaurants here in the City.

I would love to see Downtown grow and as Greensmark states, develop a true "vibe" that excludes the same boring formula - Gap, Pottery Barn, Crate & Barrel, etc. on every corner. Perhaps the thing we have going for us is there isn't one "main drag" such as Colorado Blvd., but instead we have diverse neighborhoods with a pulse. As the Rachel Brown article points out, we do have certain challenges such as interesting retail spaces and a lack of loading zones so I can see where that would scare off some large businesses but being creative is the key to success and that is where small businesses come in because they have the freedom (or lack of corporate bullsh*t) to make it work.

As for Ed Hardy moving in on Spring Street - if it draws more business into Downtown GREAT! I personally do not understand how it will survive for long unless they somehow tap into the tourist dollars. I agree with Sam that it appears it would have been better placed in South Park, amongst the Nokia Center.

Wow, for someone who never blogs, I sure can ramble! ;o)

Since most of J Town is occupied by tourists (many from Japan looking for a representation of Japan in Los Angeles), there should be a DASH bus from Pinkberry on 2nd Street to Ed Hardy for a complete downtown cultural experience.

Maybe the "Historic Core" wouldn't be so provincial and slow to change if the "Historic" part was abandoned all together.

It's obvious that old buildings exist downtown, except to the blind, but dwelling on it merely seems to promote "quaintness."

Let's drop a Zaha Hadid building between Ye Olde Loftminiums and get some real shit, some international shit -- and some monied shit -- crackin.

Slow to change? WTF? Were you here 6 years ago when Main Street was the heroin capital of the West Coast and there were dozens of empty buildings and empty stores, and nothing at all was open past 6 pm? The rate of change here has been faster than anyone could have predicted. The only ones slow to the party are the corporate retailers. But IMO that is a good thing. They are too conservative.

Once all the existing buildings are all upgraded and the economy turns around, we will likely see new construction on the empty lots in the Core. But that's not the place to start. Restoring the existing infrastructure is the first step.

I don’t see big box retailers such as Target or Barnes & Noble as locally sustainable for two reasons. First and foremost, for their spaces to be competitive with other big box stores they would need a building that isn’t obsolete from the git go and that would require a build to suit. That would be very expensive and problematic in downtown Los Angeles. And since no one is investing in pipe dreams anymore, it probably won’t happen.

Second, I was shocked to find out about year ago what landlords are getting in rent per square foot from the small retailers who cater to the Hispanic market on streets like Los Angeles and Broadway. Relatively speaking, they get big bucks and most of it comes in the form of cold hard cash. I think the landlords must be pretty darn happy with the status quo. I know I would be. So there is not a lot of push or pull (volume of shoppers) for big box retailers.

I’m going way out on a limb here as well as out of my depth but I think the key may be smaller shops that are interesting and cater to very specialized subsets of the population. For instance, a store that caters to comic book collectors.

Also, I think downtown retail would benefit from the presence of micro parks. If shoppers new they could take a time out and relax in a park while visiting stores they like, it might help draw more people. It is also something the city could do without additional budgeting as the fees have been collected from the developers. Or is that just a pipe dream as well. . . .

the comment guidelines for this blog ask us to "keep it civil." but who from blogdowntown is monitoring this exchange? please check in: a number of participants (including me) have been "attacked" in some form, in the guise of constructive criticism.

we're trying to build a community here; do we accomplish that by tearing each other down?

Hum, just out of curiosity what is the nature of these attacks.

I have not seen any ad hominem attacks on this board.

Do you think that people should be able to post whatever they want, right or wrong, and those who disagree with them should avoid challenging posts because the person making the posts can't tolerate disagreement.

Because I know of NO reputable bbs which has such a standard.

I wish you would be more specific about what you claim is uncivil and what you refer to as an attack.

"As for Pussy and Pooch: UGH!"

"I'm scared of people who anthropomorphize their dogs."

"Nightlife that doesn't get castrated by dim-minded loftlivers who didn't do their researchers (sic)."

...and whomever made the disparaging remark referencing 90's neon art seems to have had second thoughts, as that post has been deleted.

just asking: what's the point of denigrating your neighbors in a thread designed to find community solutions?

Anonymity breeds contempt. Even Curbed LA has recently eliminated the anonymous comment feature because of uncivil behavior. Posters should really use their real, full names. When your true identity is behind your comments it's far less likely you will be mean to others.

Bert,

Sorry but those aren't personal attacks.

Those are pretty standard comments on a community blog.

And by no means rise to the level incivility as defined by netiquette.

And Bert, my name is Nancy Richardson. I am a sixty something formerly retired (now unemployed) motion picture advertising executive, and I have lived downtown for 12 years.

I have been online since Compuserve was in ASCII,(1985) and in all my years I have never seen such benign comments referred to as "uncivil."

AND ANOTHER THING!

(aka old lady yells at clouds)

Does anyone else appreciate the irony of someone demanding civility when it comes to her opinions, while calling censorship of those who mildly disagree with her.

It isn't as if this place didn't have a fairly notorious whine about a popular local cafe asking blogger and her friends not to linger over coffee during the Sunday brunch rush...

so attacking commercial institutions isn't off limits. But somehow making observations about incredibly expensive dog boutiques and the idiosyncratic behavior of some dog owners is the end of Western Civilization, as we know it.

That complaining about the homeless...or the fact that Latinos speak Spanish on the most important hispanic shopping street is perfectly okay...but snark about loft dwellers who move into a urban area complaining about late night revelers...when one expects that they should have noticed that bar, the drug dealers...or heard rumors about city life when they moved in, is bad form.

Lots of different kind of people have moved into the city since I rolled the old Conestoga over the Cahenuga Pass in the the trek from Van Nuys, back when most of you only came down here to get confused by the one way streets and complain about jury duty.....or if your jr. high bused you down to the Music Center for a little culture.

One thing I like about living down here is that it is hard, there are challenges...and it isn't like the rest of Los Angeles.

But if you are going to participate in chatting about your experience living here, it does well to learn that not everything is about you...and that appreciating our differences is how you come to mutual respect...

not asking the management to clamp down on opinion which gets under an overly thin skin.

Nano, I don't think that the examples pointed out above were attacks either. I was making a more general statement.

Downtown is a great community. There are a lot of people I have met offline as a result of their comments online, using real names. I have met very few of the anonymous commentators because they are hiding and don't want to be known.

Greensmark writes:

Right Nano! I think your comments are terrific! I too have had my share of living in the 'burbs! "Who in they're right mind would move from the lushness that is Beverly Hills to the urban decay of Downtown!" one would ask. I, personally, don't see it that way. Otherwise, I would not have moved down here. And make no mistake, this is NOT NYC!! That is urban living. But the thing that makes that lifestyle so appealing, for me, is that you have a chance to SEE your neigbourhood, to greet people in the street, to get to know what is going to be "opening" soon. IN SHORT: to be part of the community. I know it sounds grand and lofty, but honestly, isn't it about time we all lived in the moment while planning for the future. All who come downtown are welcome. Opinions, complaints, disagreements are part of the puzzle. Take nothing personal and be involved. What a concept!!

Grnsmrk aka Mark Sanchez

Nanorich – I appreciate many of your comments. Yes, living downtown is very hard. As we can all see from many of these posts, we face significant challenges. But the common point in these comments, is the desire for “change”. Not accepting downtown for what it is, but the desire for change. Many of you are asking for more retail and amenities. Yes, we are entitled (and encouraged) to give direct and constructive feedback (or opinion), but ultimately, we are asking for change and improvement.

So how do we get this change? By working together as a community. That’s what Alex is saying. She’s asking for us to be civil and work towards the common good. Isolating a business or a person does not help this greater good. We’re not trying to take away the right to opinion, we are asking for us to use better judgment when exercising an opinion – “does my post really help the greater good or am I just angry right now and want people to listen?”

Bert has a great point about sharing our names. That’s why we’ve stepped forward to share our feedback (as a retailer). There are a lot of business owners reading this right now who are scared to make a comment because they fear someone will jump on their bandwagon next. That’s not civil and that’s not building community.

We are aware of the perception of being expensive and fancy. I’ll take this last opportunity to communicate that we are just like every other neighborhood pet boutique in the US. (Although we are not Bev Hills and don’t carry expensive products.) We carry all price points and cater to many with low income. Everything we do is focused on being a neighborhood store - raise money and donations for charities, free social events, employ the homeless with odd jobs for money, education on nutrition, adoption events, etc.

My wife (and business partner) has been living in DT for over 14 years, so we know downtown, we are not transplants. We chose to invest in downtown and help the movement for change. We wanted to be part of this exciting movement and give something special to downtown. Others have followed and now 6th and Main is thriving (and expanding).

Living here is hard. We all need to do our part to make every day a bit easier.

Rob

I have to come to the defense of Pussy and Pooch here, since we're all venting opinions. As far as I'm concerned Janene is the epitome of customer service. She is very educated about pet nutrition and recommended food for my 12 year old cat that not only cleared up his chronic intestinal problems (I'll withhold the details in case anyone is eating) but his coat has become incredibly silky since I started him on this diet and he has more energy. I do pay more per bag of food, but since the nutritional quality is MUCH HIGHER than the petco crap I was feeding before, the bag lasts longer so I come out even, probably saving money if you consider the reduction in vet bills because of better nutrition. I love the design and style of the store as well as all the unusual items available that you really don't see in other pet stores. I think it's worth more paying for things that aren't a big purple carpeted eyesore, and they do carry reasonable products as well, like the 50's modern pet beds currently displayed in the window and handmade by a local artist.

I'm fine with the fact that the big retail chains are holding off coming downtown. I would much rather have a build up of smaller more interesting retailers before they descend upon us. Do we really need another American city that looks the same as all the rest? I can wait on Target while I discover adorable alternatives I hadn't considered in Little Tokyo markets. Who knew a toilet brush could be cute? I have no idea what this package says but the picture looks delicious! This one is in English but the grammar is adorably incorrect!

I love that Downtown pushes me out of my comfort zone and exposes me to things that I wouldn't see in other homogenized areas of LA. It's great to feel excited every time a new business opens. I can't wait to see what our independent creative retailers come up with next!

Sorry Rob, if you wanna use this blog to drum up business, and think that you and your friends have the right to attempt to censor people who don't care for your store

that ain't curbing "incivility" that is attempting control people saying stuff you don't like.

I was taken aback by your claims of personal attacks...and am surprised you didn't let this thread die a quiet death.

And I have to say that your postings and the choreographed attempts to get unfriendly posts pulled from this board have pretty much convinced me that whatever money I have to spend on my elderly cats, will not be spent at your establishment.

Nancy – nothing here is choreographed. I did not ask anyone to post anything. Just as much as others have spoken their words against, we have had some customers speak out on their own accord. I’m surprised that you can’t recognize that someone would defend us or our thoughts. I’m not trying to “drum up business”. I’m trying to defend what we stand for, just as much as you do. If you truly knew us, you would know this.

And, I'll say this again, no one is trying to control what people say. We are focusing on the greater good for downtwon and building community. That's what this article is about - growing Retail and growing the community.

Rob

Thank you, Dawn, for more eloquently communicating the sentiment I've been trying to illustrate via comments on this blog. I usually just give sarcastic one-liners that are most likely misconstrued. I too cannot understand why everyone is aching so badly for huge chains to move into Downtown.

We've got something much more interesting going on here, and people can't wait for it to be like everywhere else.

Also, the Pussy and Pooch people are ridiculously sweet, and their products seem to me to be affordable and high in quality. The fact that they're asking us, their neighbors, to help support their mom n pop business is fine with me. I'm surprised they even have to ask. It's stunning that one of the biggest Downtown boosters and pet owners hasn't even stepped foot inside the store. And he lives in the building. Ouch.

Haha! No, I didn't change my mind about calling the vitrine at 5th and Main early 90s neon art.

My comment was censored. So censorship becomes a new agency of "art criticism."

Such precious, tiny feathers amongst us, apparently.

nanorich, The only thing that persuaded me to write nice things about Pussy and Pooch is that they have treated me well as a customer and I wanted to give a good example of this. I hadn't even read the comment that was posted above mine until just signing in now. I guess we were writing at the same time or something. I've mainly been helped by Janene, I'm not sure if I've even met Rob.

thank you all, for your support and/or your candor.

now, if you'll excuse me, i have to fill some water balloons to drop on the drunk and disorderly who are being disgorged from the association. (insert smile emoticon here)

Greensmark writes:

I am so happy that everyone has comments about retail downtown. The fact that we're even talking about an industry that has taken such a hit is a good thing. I am in complete agreement with Rob's sentiments about BUSINESS and COMMUNITY. And in the beginning we, too, were very happy to visit, shop and recommend P&P to the rest of our friends. Dog food aside, since we make our own, it is always fun to shop for toys and such for the dogs. My comments about Pus was about customer service and follow through. It was not handled correctly and as such, it left a bad impression. Of which made us re-thinking giving them our business. So bit it! I'm over it; hopefully they are too.

I have to agree with Rich regarding Muttropolitian! Grace is such a wonderful person; friendly and kind to our boys! We are so happy to have found her store.

Finally, here is to more dialog on this subject. When we all participate we all win!

Grnsmrk

Nanorich is my new hero.

Refreshing to read someone who isn't a sycophant.

On a completely prosaic note, we feed our cats Science Diet because one of our kitties has kidney troubles, but P&P doesn't carry the brand. So off to Glendale we go for cat food. Believe me, I'd much rather shop locally because trucking to Petco or Silverlake is a pain, so if any enterprising downtown retailers want to carry Science Diet food, they'll get my business.

Li - One of the problems with carrying Science Diet is the brand which sells at your veterinary office (such as the kidney formula) can only be sold through a licensed vet. Like Pussy & Pooch, Pet Project also does not sell Science Diet or Iams. I have conducted a lot of research on these two brands and they both do not meet my high standards for quality. The parent company is Colgate/Palmolive and along with Procter & Gamble (who own Iams) have practiced ruthless animal testing. Also, veterinarians are given financial incentives to sell Science Diet in their clinics.

I have read many articles in trade magazines stating that although veterinarians are specialists in animal biology, many do not conduct enough research necessary to recommend a healthy food. This is what I have read - I am not making this up!

I am certainly not saying you shouldn't feed your kitty any of these brands as I myself am not a pet food nutritionist or a veterinarian, but I have conducted my research and that is the reason Pet Project does not sell these two brands. I feel pretty confident that Pussy & Pooch would agree.

Greensmark writes:

Pet: Your comments are very welcome on those products. In fact, our own vet warned us of the makers of some of these pet foods. Most have so much crap in them, I wouldn't feed them to my worse enemy's pet!! On his recommendation, we now make our dog's food; feed them a Pet tab for vitamins and they don't have any of the skin problems they used to have. And their stool is not nasty!! (Sorry if you were eating) Thank you Pet Project for the info. And thans Nano for being a voice of reason.

Grnsmrk

Pet Project - You're thinking of "Hill's Prescription Diet". We're buying "Hill's Science Diet Mature Adult Indoor", which is non-prescription and has the low phosphorus, magnesium and ash that our kitty needs. For cans we get Friskies "Special Diet", which is also low in phosphorus, magnesium and ash. On this food our kitty has thrived. On other non-low-phosphorus food she becomes sick.

Maybe P&P has expanded their offerings, but last time I was in their there were no low-phosphorus options in cat food that I could find.

This thread is veering way off topic, the point I am trying to make is that the local shop does not meet our needs, and we have to go elsewhere. When someone's needs are not met by the local retail, the solution is not to lecture them as to their purchasing choices. What I feed my cat is my business. I'm also leaving downtown for cheap dairy at the Smart and Final. Are you going to tell me how bad dairy is for me? How the farms mistreat the cows? Way to boost downtown. "Move downtown and meet our busybodies, who will tell you how to live" is a poor message to send about our little 'hood. It also doesn't reflect the creativity and diversity that can be found here.

Off topic – but to answer questions for Li and MB:

We understand what you are going thru. We lost one of our cats to kidney troubles (2 years ago). This was one of our motivations for opening the store. When we did research on pet food (as consumers before being store owners), we realized how unhealthy it really is - especially the top brands found in grocery stores & stores like Petco.

Most quality/natural brands are low in phosphorus, magnesium and ash, so you have many options. Friskies and Science Diet may seem to be healthy options, but if you look closer at all the ingredients, you will be disappointed. (I used to feed Science Diet for my dog years ago before I knew what was really in it.) Cats with these issues desperately need quality canned food, they need the moisture that dry food can’t provide. I urge you to come back in to the store and ask for assistance. We’d be happy to walk you thru the labels/ingredients of the various products. We have many books on nutrition that you are welcome to stop by and take a look at.

Greensmark - can you share your vet's info? We appreciate vets who are knowledgeable on nutrition and would like to refer this vet to other customers. (thanks)

They do. Face it. If you want to feel better buying overly rich expensive foods for your pets, then knock yourself out, but Buffy is still going to die one day. It's not always a quality of life issue with pets and pet owners, but rather stroking one's ego.

A roster of pet cemeteries near downtown would be beneficial to this discussion.

There are many organizations setup to help foster new business in downtown. If anyone is interested they should seek out the DCBID (Downtown Center Business Improvement District) and the VEDC (Valley Economic Development Corporation). Both of these organization are here to help business find a place to setup shop. The VEDC helps with all aspects of your business like finding a location, getting funding etc...

To all potential small business investors: do your OWN due-diligence please!!!!! I can't stress this enough. Many small business are excited at any opportunity to be part of the downtown revival but don't fully take the time to develop their ideas nor take the time to examine the location. Don't feel rushed or pressured by agents or building owners to sign a lease. Be very realistic and even conservative about how you will survive for the next year.

One other thing... don't feel ashamed to talk to existing business owners either. They can be the most direct source of information and ideas.

Greensmark writes:

jtoktas has a great point: Do your research before even thinking about opening a business. ANY WHERE!! Case in point: A cute coffee shop with a Hawaiian theme opened early in the year. It took FOREVER to get the place open. And then,abruptly, it closed! Couldn't make it or ran out of funds or couldn't get a loan? Don't really know. But we figured it had to do with the recession, Or the fact that there were already four coffee shops (read: coffee Bean and Starbucks) already in the vicinity.

Grnsmrk

perhaps this is the wrong story to comment on, but as a new downtown resident i have noticed the following. while the numerous downtown renovations of old buildings are lovely and much needed, they are too expensive for the people who actually WORK here--most of them anyways. please someone correct me if i am wrong--but the majority of the jobs in and around downtown la are in MANUFACTIRING--i'm talking majority here. i realize there are several law firms and such over by the Nokia Center which must employ-- i'm guessing several thousand people. but the garment industry is dominant i believe. most of the people that work in factories and warehouses--most that is make between $20,000 and $30,000/year. also--most of those workers have families--which means they need childcare and schools. has anyone(developers) considered these people? because these are the people who work in downtown la.

Good point.

Where are the needs and interests of those who work in sweatshops, for example, in the discussion of the evolution of downtown?

The poor remain to have no voice including on this blog.

Mr. Richarson,

i work in manufacturing so i am familiar with the positions available here in la, what they pay and where they are. even though many garments designed locally are sewn overseas, several people are needed at a company to get a good looking sample(prototypes) sewn--also, most companies now do a mix of local AND overseas production. clothing companies have cutters, sewers, costers--as well as a slew of design assistants (they don't make that much money either--mostly fresh out of school). i recommend visiting some local wholesale companies to learn about the thousands of workers who come here everyday to bring "life" to the garment disctrict--notice how its a ghost town at night? on a side note--the cafes nestled between the fabric/trim and wholesale shops in the garment disctrict seems to be doing brisk business.

i've worked in several factories downtown (and close by as you mention)--MOST of jobs pay no more than $25/hour. are you saying these people don't exist? how much does a median downtown govermant worker make? i'm guessing 50,000-60,000/year? there are indeed a lot of goverment buildings(good looking ones too) downtown--but can they afford the rent at a luxury apartment? just asking...

i'm enjoying living downtown and am on board with supporting its smart growth and development. i also appreciate this blog. i'm concerned with the lack of reasonably priced "new" or redeveloped lofts and apartments though. i think there needs to be more thought given to some $800-$1,000 rental units. i just dont see the jobs downtown to support so many "luxury" units. i see the reality--which is that downtown is surrounded by manufacturing facilities where the average worker isn't making a "luxury" salary---THOSE jobs are all on the Westside----or in a business park in Tustin or something.

maybe city organizers would be wise to encourage more entertainment, tech or medical-type companies to think about relocating here in exchange for some sort of incentives before they start clamouring for a "trader joes" or yet more "luxury apartments" that are desitned to sit empty. and i still stand by the daycare idea. i would think that type of "retail" might flourish here.

Seems so strange that the Ralphs Fresh Fare is doing so well-- best in the chain, I understand-- yet other large retailers don't think there's any business for them downtown...

Re: HOUSING We need more and more affordable housing, since the service sector can't go overseas yet those jobs remain on the low end of income (ie, hotel workers, janitors, security guards, hospital workers, food service workers); recent college grads with higher-paying jobs have huge student loan debt; etc.

Re: 'LITTLE RETAILERS': Glad the 'little' retailers are stepping up-- it's great to walk around the neighborhood to get what one needs. And even tho there are folks who don't like Broadway's current retail environment, those little shops seem to attract enormous crowds esp on the weekends.

Sandie: Ralph's is really the only game in town when it comes to grocery stores. Sure there is a Food 4 Less and it's busy bet let's face facts - the new downtown dweller living in a condo are the one's shopping at Ralph's out of sheer convenience. This convenience comes at a price, namely higher prices than other Ralph's or competitor Vons/Fresh and Easy. The average Ralph's customer will pay the higher price because it's near where they live, and this is one of the factors making the 9th Street location one of the most profitable in the chain.

I think that's why they've been able to not face the economic conditions of other downtown retailers.