New Shops Coming to Selinsgrove Area

WNEP-TV 16, ABC Affiliate

A mall and a shopping area in Snyder County have a plan to fill some empty storefronts and it could mean good news for small businesses.

Margie Deppen, general manager at the Susquehanna Valley Mall near Selinsgrove said some of the empty storefronts in the mall will be filled soon with businesses from the area. "It will bring customers into the shopping center. It will also give different venues a place to showcase their products," said Deppen.

She explained the goal is to incorporate local flare at the Susquehanna Valley Mall and the nearby strip mall, Monroe Marketplace. Deppen is hoping to bring in trade schools and specialty shops like Sarah-Kate, a local decorating store.

"We are bringing in some things that people haven't seen before. My owner is trying to bring in some new hand bags and different items that most people have to go to resort areas," said Sharon Harris.

Managers said they are willing to change store fronts and even glass to accommodate the new tenants. There are eight available spaces at the mall and four at the marketplace. Some shoppers look forward to seeing local businesses.

"I think it would bring in a lot more people because when you know the person who is there selling, you want to support that person," said Alice Shaffer.

Some don't agree.

"I hate to see the downtowns lose their luster. I think what makes the downtowns special are those small local shops and if all of a sudden those small local shops are pulled into the mall we wouldn't have the need for downtowns," said Lannie Shaffer. 

The general manager said they are now accepting applications. She expects local businesses to move into the shopping areas as early as next month.

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