An overview of the bustling retail environment in Orange County in 2024.
Orange County, CA, is undergoing a significant transformation in its retail landscape throughout 2024, marked by leadership changes, business closures, and strategic expansions. Notable changes include CEO transitions at various companies and shifting retail strategies aimed at reversing declining sales trends. Despite some layoffs, certain businesses are experiencing growth, indicating a dynamic retail environment. New developments, such as a housing project near Aliso Viejo Town Center and the opening of a unique boutique at Downtown Disney, signal exciting opportunities for the region’s retail future.
Orange County, CA, is buzzing with excitement as big changes unfold in the retail landscape throughout 2024. This year, the area has seen transformational leadership shifts, a handful of business closures, and some strategic expansions that are reshaping the way we shop. Let’s dive into what’s happening!
Boot Barn Holdings Inc. has created quite a stir with the departure of their long-time CEO, Jim Conroy, who has taken a new role with Ross Stores Inc. After 12 years at Boot Barn, Conroy’s exit leaves the company in the capable hands of Interim Chief Executive John Hazen as they navigate this new chapter.
Meanwhile, St. John Knits recently relocated its headquarters to Anaheim and has formed an executive management committee led by CEO Andy Lew. This new team, made up of faces like Chief Financial Officer Andrew Wong and Chief Merchandising Officer Lauren Parrish, aims to enhance the brand’s market presence and adapt to current retail challenges.
Over in San Clemente, Rip Curl has appointed Ashley Reade as their new CEO. This change is designed to breathe fresh energy into the brand as it aims to stay ahead in the competitive surfing industry.
Vans Inc. is gearing up for a relocation of their headquarters to Costa Mesa by May 2024. They’re doing this along with their sibling brand, Dickies, both of which have enlisted new presidents to spur sales improvements. The appointment of Sun Choe for Vans and Chris Goble for Dickies reflects a strategic shift aimed at reversing declining sales trends.
In another notable shift, Sole Technology’s four brands in Lake Forest were sold to The Nidecker Group in June 2023, highlighting the dynamic nature of retail ownership in this region.
On a more somber note, Liberated Brands, also based in Costa Mesa, closed its offices in January 2024, leading to employee layoffs. This change was significant with 363 folks saying goodbye to their jobs following the loss of major licenses for well-known brands like Billabong and Volcom.
As of April 2024, Orange County’s workforce for apparel companies has seen a slight decrease, with around 7,600 employees, down about 1% from last year. However, not all companies are struggling. Benchmark FR, focusing on flame-resistant clothing, is bucking the trend with an expansion from 29 to 41 employees, attributing this growth to the demand both locally and overseas.
Charly USA, makers of soccer gear, are holding steady in Irvine with 11 employees. On a brighter note, Pacsun is enjoying a healthy increase with a 7.4% rise in their employee count to 422, crediting this growth to the rollout of exciting new products and additional store openings.
Boot Barn is also thriving with an impressive 8.3% sales increase of $1.8 billion in 2024, supporting 482 local jobs in the process. In Costa Mesa, Z Supply has recorded a whopping 20% revenue growth to $120 million while expanding its team by 5.4%, bringing the local headcount to 97 employees.
Real estate investments are heating up as ValueRock Realty Partners recently acquired the former Macaroni Grill at Aliso Viejo Town Center for a cool $5.3 million. This move could signal new retail opportunities for the area.
In the same area, a proposed housing development named Avalon Aliso Viejo is set to add 343 units right across from the Town Center, introducing a fresh wave of residents to the region. The Town Center is already home to popular franchises like CVS, Home Goods, Ralphs, and Regal Cinemas, making it a vibrant destination for shoppers and families alike.
Downtown Disney is about to get even cuter with the opening of the Disney Storyland Boutique, featuring a focus on the delightful Japanese Kawaii culture. With regularly changing themes and product lines, this boutique is sure to attract visitors looking for unique finds.
Lastly, the ever-evolving landscape at MainPlace Mall continues with plans for a transformation into a mixed-use destination that includes residential units and dining options. This shift comes as retail faces challenges, blending the lines between shopping and living.
As we move further into 2024, the retail scene in Orange County is not just changing, it’s adapting, innovating, and thriving. There’s no doubt this vibrant region of California will continue to surprise us with what’s next!
Orange County’s Malls Transform into Housing and Entertainment
Major Acquisition of Spectrum Centre Business Park in Lake Forest
Orange County’s Commercial Real Estate Market Faces Challenges
Tustin Development: Irvine Company Acquires Key Land
Orange County Faces Heavy Costs with SAVE Act Implementation
Nuclear Comics: A Pillar of Resilience in Mission Viejo
Goodwill of Orange County Appoints New COO
Goodwill of Orange County Welcomes New Chief Operating Officer
Orange County Small Businesses Impacted by New Tariffs
Orange County Hosts Vibrant 2025 Natural Products Expo West
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