LIHU‘E — Target is coming!
The Kukui Grove Center announced the arrival of the new retailer to its ‘ohana of retailers, restaurants, and specialty services to the building at the Kukui Marketplace, close to the Kumu’s Cupboard resource center for Kaua‘i school educators.
The planned store will cover approximately 122,000 square feet following a renovation to the existing space at the Kukui Marketplace, the announcement states.
“We are delighted to be able to welcome Target to Lihu‘e,” said David Sosner, the Kukui Grove Center general manager. “This is an important project for us, introducing a substantial building renovation and new jobs to boost our local economy.
“The potential arrival of Target has been a buzz in the community for years, and we are excited to be able to deliver this new offering to Kaua‘i consumers. We think it will be a wonderful addition to our mix of retailers, restaurants, and specialty services at Kukui Grove, and offer a new shopping experience that we don’t currently have available on Kaua‘i.”
During the lease negotiation, JLL represented the Kukui Grove Center.
“Having such a beloved brand join our growing roster of retailers at Kukui Grove Center is a tremendous boost for our community,” said Lauren W. Stilley, Vice President, National Retail Leasing, JLL. “There is strong demand for accessible quality retail that offers a convenient shopping experience on the island. Their new store will be a welcome addition and make an immediate impact.”
The addition of Target follows several upgrades to the shopping center that started in 2017 when JLL started managing the property. Some of these upgrades include a food court renovation, the introduction of a Keiki Korner Play Area, and a new specialty leasing program to bring more entrepreneurs and nonprofits into the retail lineup.
The work continues despite the arrival of the COVID-19 global medical crisis.
“During COVID-19, our team has been working hard on upgrades, including rock veneer on the raised planters, painting projects, parking lot improvements, and new outdoor furniture arriving at the end of this year,” Sosner said. “We’ve greatly appreciated the support of the community during this challenging year, and we’ve been working hard to support our merchants and customers. When customers shop, this helps all merchants at the center, their employees, and the families they support. Kukui Grove is a community hub as well as a retail center, and this is one more way we can support Kaua‘i.”
•••
Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
