Mega-mall developer DDR Corp. announced Wednesday plans to expand its redevelopment program on the island from $50 million to $90 million, creating additional space at its four shopping centers. As a result, it will sign up new tenants, including the first Bath and Body Works store in Puerto Rico, to be located in Plaza del Sol in Bayamón.
While much has been said about “economic uncertainty” and “consumer confidence,” the fact is that Puerto Rico’s economy has been in a state of disarray for so long it has become the new normal. So says Francis González, vice president of property management for DDR Corp., owners of 15 shopping centers islandwide.
Puerto Rico’s food industry eliminated 3,000 jobs during the 12-month period ended August 2012 and is bracing for the effects of a double-dip recession that could thwart sales, at least during the first half of 2013.