Wilder plans image makeover for Connecticut center

Wilder Companies executives have an image upgrade in mind for the Nod Brook Mall in Avon, Connecticut, a 100,000-sq.-ft. open shopping center they bought this week. The affluent bedroom community outside Hartford boasts an average household income of almost $160,000, according to Wilder, which will recast the center as The Shops at Nod Brook.



“Really, we’re looking to enhance all of our centers, mid-market or up-market, to enhance the experience for the shopper,” company principal Tom Wilder told Chain Store Age. “Whether the shopper is an executive or a teacher, they have high expectations for centers.”



Serving as a catalyst for Wilder’s vision at Avon is a newly opened Fresh Market, which joins co-anchors Marshalls and Michaels. The national leasing, management, and development firm specializes in open-air centers, and Wilder said the pulling power of discount retail and grocery anchors should not be underestimated.



“We like the grocery-anchored centers, and especially the specialty grocers like Fresh Market, whose mix of gourmet and value provides a great retail experience,” Wilder observed. “And hey, a discounter like T.J. Maxx does a great job. What we love about them is they draw a broad demographic.”



Wilder’s prospects for The Shops at Nod Brook are high as it is situated on the busy Route 44 featuring retail neighbors such as T.J.’s, Kohl’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Bed Bath & Beyond.