Hoping for a positive chain reaction

For years, local sages have been trying to pinpoint the reasons for slumping sales in downtown Los Altos and figure out solutions. A recently completed study by the downtown Revitalization Task Force concluded promoters need to recruit popular chain stores to boost sales.

Other goals include providing a retail and dining mix to appeal to all ages, encouraging longer hours, hosting live performances, building a boutique hotel and movie theater, and closing off streets for pedestrian-only traffic.

We agree with most of the recommendations. The most challenging one is attracting chain stores.

There are a few advantages chains have over some of our mom-and-pops. They are well-established, destination stores. The thinking is that someone looking for a Smith & Hawken outlet, for instance, will come to Los Altos and discover a new shopping experience.

Chains also have much deeper pockets. They can afford to employ people into the evening hours and stay open longer, thus meeting another goal of the downtown task force. Many downtown Los Altos retail stores are still maintaining bankers’ hours, making shopping inconvenient for those who work during the day.

However, what makes the village a village is its hometown feel, its relaxed atmosphere. The challenge for city leaders will be to attract a few influential chain stores that can serve as catalysts for improving surrounding businesses.

The presence of Trader Joe’s at Foothill Plaza, for instance, has done wonders for that south Los Altos shopping center. Some observers point to the recent transformation of downtown Burlingame from a sleepy to a thriving center based on some chain store additions.

Problems that may still need to be addressed include city limitations on square footage and storefronts. And some landlords may have to reevaluate their lease rate expectations, at least in the early stages of the leases.

We understand that chain stores bring some positives. However, in keeping with the overall goal to “maintain the village experience,” the key will be offering a healthy mixture of chains with the downtown’s traditional mom-and-pop operations.

Chains should be filling a retail need, not duplicating existing retail elements that could drive others out of business. We have long maintained that city leaders must ensure the unique village is not overrun by chains and transformed into “Anytown U.S.A.”

Thankfully, the goal of the task force and city leaders is to supplement, not replace, mom-and-pops with chain stores. With successful implementation of this goal, we see a bright future for downtown Los Altos.