In spite of a weak economy, Roseville Galleria has moved full steam ahead on the multi-million-dollar expansion. Phase one of the added space welcomed fine retailers like Louis Vuitton and affordable stores still coveted by saavy shoppers. Sweden based H&M, Dalia’s and food court offerings like Dairy Queen are what Westfield, the corporation that runs the mega mall, hope draw a greater number of shoppers to “The Galleria”.
On the first day of the “grand opening” thousands of eager shoppers began lining up as early as 4 a.m. waiting for a chance to win gift cards to be used throughout the shopping center. Five winners earned one thousand dollars in mall cash for waiting 6 hours for the doors to open. Most shoppers shared the same sentiment, saying that it was great to know big brand names they usually had to travel out of the area or out of the state to get to – were now so much closer to home.
Pam A., drove all the way from her home in Meadow Vista, northeast of Auburn. Her daughter came with for a fun time out together.
“These are the stores that I always go to when I’m on vacation - I go to some of these stores when I travel and now I can go right here in Roseville.”
Connie G., a resident of Sacramento said there was just one reason for coming out on the busy opening day.
“The new L.V. (Louis Vuitton) store! I had to travel all the way to Southern California and Fashion Island in Las Vegas to get a bag. Now its here! I am very pleased.”
Westfield representatives say there is much more to come. The renovation continues into 2009 when famed jewelry maker Tiffany & Co. comes in the spring. Other names like Lacoste and Juicy have only upped the caliber for the newest and largest mall in our area.
The hope is that though all signs show that shopping and credit purchases are low on American’s to do list, the glitz and glamour as well as location, will be reason enough for the holiday buying season.