Arts and crafts retailer Michaels will be the next big store to swing open its doors at Uptown shopping centre.
The U.S.-based retailer is expected to open this spring, possibly late March, but has not given a specific date.
Michaels is moving into the space formerly occupied by Best Buy on Uptown’s upper level. It will close its nearby store at the Island Home Centre on Cloverdale Avenue, but has not given a timeline.
Douglas Castro, district manager for The Michaels Companies Inc., said in a statement the new store will feature an updated design that “focuses on providing creative inspiration, fresh new products and an enhanced shopping experience.”
Uptown’s first and second phases, which cover 860,000 square feet and include 2,800 parking spaces, are complete. Walmart, Shoppers Drug Mart and Future Shop are anchors to fashion stores, medical specialists, restaurants and provincial agencies.
About 75 per cent of its retail and commercial space is leased.
Uptown’s third and final phase was announced this week when Whole Foods said it will be opening in the fall of 2016. About 150 workers will be employed when the 40,000-square-foot building opens at the north end of the site. Hundreds of construction workers will be employed, according to Uptown.
Uptown manager Roberta Ferguson said plans for the remainder of the third phase have yet to be finalized.
Two towers of condominiums and office space were considered earlier. Different uses are being discussed and market demand will guide decisions, Ferguson said.d
