Saks leaving International Market Place - Target to replace it

[Futuremauian]

I was surprised to read that the new Target store "will open in the next few years". I would have guessed that the building owners would stipulate a quick turnaround.

I wonder if the demise of Saks was exacerbated by the dearth of high-spending Japanese visitors?

No doubt American tourists will utilize the Target for groceries, beach supplies, souvenirs, liquor, etc.

[whtviper1]

Originally Posted by Futuremauian

I wonder if the demise of Saks was exacerbated by the dearth of high-spending Japanese visitors?

It was a ghost town pre-pandemic. Incredibly overpriced items that looked tacky and not fashionable.

[prospectheightsresident]

Originally Posted by whtviper1

It was a ghost town pre-pandemic. Incredibly overpriced items that looked tacky and not fashionable.

I went there once to use my biannual $50 Saks credit via my AMEX platinum card and the place was empty enough that they were able to stick a worker on me to ensure I didn't steal anything

[dsb1067]

Originally Posted by Futuremauian

I wonder if the demise of Saks was exacerbated by the dearth of high-spending Japanese visitors?

All those high end stores at the airport are closed too.

[Kawamura]

The last time I was home at the end of Aug, the I.M seemed pretty dead (I often get a bento at the Mitsuwa Market on the second floor). Almost no Japanese outside of the locals. Even with the lessening of Japanese travel restrictions, I personally don't think that a flood of Japanese tourists are going to inundate Hawaii.


Too much uncertainty and negative stuff going on in the world right now. Little Mrs Watanabe is watching the financial markets swing wildly and I don't think she's feeling the love... With the travel and mask mandates ending, it's going to help tourism numbers - especially from the mainland, but that's counterbalanced by the high rate of inflation in... Everything. Gas, Hotel rates, food, I'm glad I've already purchased airline tickets for both my trips this year a year out.


My inbound flight into HNL on UA ALONE at the end of Apr went from $1200 to $2500 (just checked this morning). Sak's has a presence in almost all U.S. cities of any size so it's not a destination that's going to attract mainlanders or locals. It's got to rely on its "cachet" to bring in the Asians who are addicted to such things. Herme can get away with it, but Sak's just "ain't all that and a musubi". TarJay? As a previous poster noted, the ABC stores are going to get increased competition but there are so many of them in the area that the convenience factor alone (certainly not the prices) will see them through.



I really miss getting a Lilikoi ice cream at the little old Dave's stand in the old marketplace...Back in the day...


V/R

[Futuremauian]

Originally Posted by prospectheightsresident

I went there once to use my biannual $50 Saks credit via my AMEX platinum card and the place was empty enough that they were able to stick a worker on me to ensure I didn't steal anything

A decade ago, two separate men who fit my general description (middle-aged, white guy) were arrested for shoplifting at my local Costco Store.

The next time I was in that Costco, I was profiled and followed by a very obvious (and oblivious) employee. I made intentional trips to the distant 4 corners of the store and he was with me non-stop.

It certainly does happen!

[ScottStielow]

Originally Posted by whtviper1

I don't disagree Target is odd - I'm not a Target nor Walmart fan.

No decent grocery stores exist in Waikiki - food sales will be strong - and the entire Kuhio corridor of lowish middle class will fit Target well - they will certainly beat ABC store prices - and tourists and residents of Waikiki will flock to the store in my opinion.

I think it will be packed.

Agree. I was telling my wife the other day that Saks just does not have the volume of store visitors. I did not see a lot of people shopping inside at one time. I was wondering how long it was going to last.
Vacationers will like Target also.