REAL ESTATE

New York — Starbucks plans to triple the number of outlets it has in China during the next four years, the Associated Press reported.

The company expects to increase the number of shops in China from 470 now to 1,500 by 2015, Asia-Pacific President Wang Jinlong said on Tuesday.

Starbucks also plans to open 700 shops in South Korea by 2016, up from 370 now, the report said.

Columbus, Ohio -- Casto said Wednesday that Larry Schwenker has joined the firm as VP property management.

Schwenker’s primary focus will be on the organization’s Midwest and Alabama commercial portfolio, which totals approximately 15 million sq. ft.

Schwenker was most recently a principal at Bryant Management Services, based in Atlanta.
 

Algonquin, Ill. -- Oak Brook, Ill.-based Inland Real Estate Corp. said Wednesday that Niko’s Lodge has leased the space formerly occupied by Barley House at Algonquin Commons in Algonquin, Ill.

Niko’s Lodge, a wilderness-themed steak and seafood restaurant, will open in the 8,824-sq.-ft. space in late October. This will be the restaurant’s second location.

Chicago -- General Growth Properties, along with more than 130 of its malls, is encouraging employees and local residents in communities across the country to join them as they take pause to commemorate the 10-year anniversary of September 11. 

Los Angeles -- A report released Tuesday by commercial real estate firm C.B. Richard Ellis said that 59% of U.S. retailers plan to open more stores due to the attractive rental rates available in the current market environment.

Riverside, Calif. -- Chicago-based General Growth Properties said that its Galleria at Tyler mall property, located in Riverside, Calif., has named Christina Riojas as its marketing manager.

Riojas' marketing duties will include the coordination and implementation of strategic advertising, public relations, budgeting, retailer relations and special events.  She most recently comes from Lake Elsinore Outlets (Lake Elsinore, Calif.) as marketing director.

San Jose, Calif. -- Jacksonville, Fla.-based Regency Centers said it has leased retail space in San Jose, Calif., to a new concept by Petco at Snell & Branham Plaza.

Specializing as a smaller neighborhood Petco store with pet supplies, products and pet food, Unleashed by Petco has leased 4,467 sq. ft. of space. The business is slated to open in fall 2011, bringing the center to 97% leased.

New York City -- Robert K. Futterman & Associates said Tuesday it has secured the first U.S. location for upscale designer footwear brand Nicholas Kirkwood at 807 Washington St. in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District.

Located between Gansevoort and Horatio Streets, the 1,572-sq.-ft. ground-floor boutique is scheduled to open in the winter of 2012.