2008 Woodie Awards
Video related to this article is available below.Issue date: 2/12/08 Section: News
Running to U. City, local retail finds support in Penn community
Philadelphia Runner opened on Walnut Street last week
St. John Barned-Smith
Property values in the area have risen in recent years, partly as a result of the arrival of national chains. Pesacov said some rental rates in the area near Domus have risen from about $45 per square foot nine years ago to up to about $105 per square foot today.
Rates aren't a problem for Philadelphia Runner, however. Belasik said the store's rental rate is "very competitive" compared with other properties Philadelphia Runner considered, but did not specify exact rates.
However, some members of the Penn community eschew national brands and franchises. Women's Studies and Sociology professor Demie Kurz said she orders her books through the Penn Book Center or House of Our Own, an independent bookstore located near 39th and Spruce streets.
"We need to preserve them," Kurz said.
English professor Hunt Howell also only orders from local retailers, citing better service from small businesses.
Independent booksellers "are one of the most vibrant things we have," he said.
And some students also appreciate having small businesses in the area.
"It's nice to have small businesses in the area," said College sophomore Kevin Taylor, "so you don't have to take a train and a bus to get one."
Rates aren't a problem for Philadelphia Runner, however. Belasik said the store's rental rate is "very competitive" compared with other properties Philadelphia Runner considered, but did not specify exact rates.
However, some members of the Penn community eschew national brands and franchises. Women's Studies and Sociology professor Demie Kurz said she orders her books through the Penn Book Center or House of Our Own, an independent bookstore located near 39th and Spruce streets.
"We need to preserve them," Kurz said.
English professor Hunt Howell also only orders from local retailers, citing better service from small businesses.
Independent booksellers "are one of the most vibrant things we have," he said.
And some students also appreciate having small businesses in the area.
"It's nice to have small businesses in the area," said College sophomore Kevin Taylor, "so you don't have to take a train and a bus to get one."
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