NWI attracts a wide range of new restaurants and retail

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Outside Shops On Main Shopping Center in Schererville, Ind.

Schererville has experienced a retail growth spurt with the establishment of the Shops On Main Shopping District at the southeast corner of Main Street and US 41. Construction of the first phase of the $112 million center developed by Boyer Properties and Regency Centers began in May 2013. Stores include Gordmans, Ross Dress for Less, DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, OshKoshB’gosh, HomeGoods and Kirkland’s.

“The Shops on Main project has progressed better than anticipated with everything constructed in phase one being leased,” Schererville Town Manager Bob Volkmann says. “There is a lot of excitement with the construction of the first Whole Foods in Northwest Indiana and I am sure it will increase interest for Shops on Main and the whole area as we get closer to their opening. It has been reported to me that several of the retailers and the restaurants openings were some of the best the chains had ever experienced. This is a reflection on the economic strength of Northwest Indiana and the opportunity for additional development within our market. Major marketing firms are taking note of what is going on in Northwest Indiana and are looking for opportunities in our area.”

Volkmann says he is seeing increased interest in Northwest Indiana from both the retail and restaurant sectors.

“New retailers and restaurants as well as existing ones are investing in properties in Northwest Indiana,” Volkmann says. “Many businesses are following the trend that is bringing residents from Illinois. In Northwest Indiana our community demographics are similar to many of the Illinois suburban communities and Indiana offers new market opportunities and a business-friendly climate.”