Is there a retail exodus in San Francisco? Some say Union Square is ‘beating strong’

Union Square in San Francisco. “I challenge you to come shop at the stores that you’re complaining about, which you probably never even stepped foot in in the first place.” Breed emphasized that media outlets aren’t covering the stores, such as Banana Republic and Ikea, that have moved or are planning to move into Union Square. “The dynamics of the downtown San Francisco market have changed dramatically over the past several years, impacting customer foot traffic to our stores and our ability to operate successfully,” Jamie Nordstrom, the chief stores officer, said in a statement. Saks Off 5th on Market Street is also shutting its doors, attributing the decision in a statement to “store performance and other factors.” As for T-Mobile’s recent closure at Stockton Street, a spokesperson said it was part of the company’s “nationwide retail strategy to better take care of customers.” Despite those businesses moving, Breed held a news conference a couple of weeks ago with District 3 Supervisor Aaron Peskin to announce a $6-million investment into the three blocks of Powell Street near Union Square where H&M, Gap and Uniqlo have closed their doors in recent years. There are roughly 300,000 less people in downtown San Francisco than there was in 2019.” The city’s property crime and homelessness crisis have also deterred foot traffic, Rose said.