CORRECTION: Whole Foods is exploring an option to convert its Harry's Farmers Market into a distribution center, but there's no need to change your shopping habits anytime soon. The grocer has just applied for zoning changes so that could be a possiblity. The store is not scheduled to close, and could well be open long after its Avalon store is expected to open in April 2014.
North American Properties announced the construction timeline and the first seven tenants for Avalon, its mixed-use development at Old Milton and Westside parkways.
The first phase of Avalon will begin construction this fall and take approximately 18 months, with the grand opening now scheduled for April 5, 2014, according to the official statement released Thursday night. That's a bit more than five months later than its original timeline, but it took time before City Council unanimously approve the master plan.
The Atlanta Business Chronicle reported on tenants after Mark Toro, North American Properties managing partner, returned from the International Council of Shopping Centers' conferrence.
"We are proud to officially announce the following tenants," North American Properties said in its statement:
Yard House (second in GA)
According to its website, Yard House is a restaurant that offers one of the largest selections of draft beers, a diverse menu of American fare, and plays a selection of classic rock music on a state-of-the-art sound system. The flagship Yard House opened on Dec. 7, 1996 along the Long Beach waterfront in Southern California. The first to open in Georgia was at another North American Properties' development, Atlantic Station.
Arhaus (home furnishings boutique)
Arhaus says on its website that its philosophy is "to design our own products, search for the best manufacturer while controlling quality, and bring the furniture direct to our customers." The company is committed to using recycled natural resources. It has a location at Phipps Plaza.
Orvis offers men's and women's clothing, fly fishing equipment and even clothing for hunting. The company endorses fly fishing guide services, including River Through Atlanta Guides in Roswell. Fly fishing and wingshooting schools, plus nature and safari trips help make this a unique store. Orvis has one store in Georgia at Buckhead Square.
Athleta offers women's yoga clothing, swimwear, running clothing and athletic clothing for fitness, golf & tennis, plus active wear for daily life.
According to its website, Paper Source is a premier paperie and online retailer offering a unique selection of fine and artisanal papers, invitations and announcements, personalized and distinctive gifts, gift wrap, greeting cards, custom stamps, and a custom collection of envelope and cards. It has one .
Anthropologie says on its website that it offers "a one-of-a-kind and compelling shopping experience that makes women feel beautiful, hopeful and connected." Existing Georgia locations includ Perimeter Mall, Lenox Square Mall and Westside Urban Market.
Whole Foods Market is the world's largest retailer of natural and organic foods, with stores throughout North America and the United Kingdom. The grocer is looking at an option to convert its on Hembree Road into a distribution center, but the Alpharetta could have both a Harrys and a Whole Foods in 2014 when Avalon opens.
Regal Cinemas says on its website that it is the largest movie theater circuit featuring major motion pictures, digital movie presentation, RealD Digital 3D. is part of the Regal Cinemas group.
Jackasses!!!
Dom, what's your idea? Mark Toro Managing Partner North American Properties
Www.minus5experience.com
As for the actual retailers, I would like to see more support for smaller independent shops. Why not create an open market and bring in the local farmers that always set up shop around Alpharetta and Roswell area, instead of another overpriced grocer. Can a smaller sports shop selling Orvis equipment survive against an Orvis flagship store opening down the road? I think attracting some local businesses like Apharetta Outfitters, that could benefit from being in the "Avalon" spot light, is a far better plan Maybe I am too cerebral, but instead of a cinema how about a theater or music venue and bringing some support for the arts to town? Thanks for listening, Dom
H. Stockton would also be nice.
Thanks, again, for your support of Avalon. Mark Toro Managing Partner North American Properties
@ Dom...you are misinformed in regards to the theatre, Regal at Northpoint is moving to Avalon and AMC is moving across the street to the empty anchor spot at North Point Mall, so the "new" theatre at Avalon won't be competing with 2 theatres right down the road.
If not, then go for it!