Michaels store readies to open in Colma

0 Comments | Oakland Tribune, Feb 22, 2009 | by Christine Morente

COLMA -- Sonia Mendoza peered into the new Michaels, but only saw boxes and an employee fixing up the store.

She'd hoped it would be open so she could buy silk flowers for her wall sconces.

"I've always done crafts, more so now because of the economy," said Mendoza, who is also making throw pillows. "I'm trying to get the sales and make more arrangements for gifts."

The 54-year-old South San Francisco resident wasn't the only one checking up on the store, which is slated to open March 8. Three other women also looked in within a span of 10 minutes Friday morning.

The arts and crafts specialty center has moved into the town's Serra Shopping Center at 4925 Junipero Serra Blvd. It will be the second store to feature the company's new store design. The first prototype is near the company's headquarters in Irving, Texas.

Michaels' new look includes inspiration kiosks for project ideas and work spaces for customers to lay out an idea or design before buying.

In February, the retailer surveyed 500 customers and found 84 percent said they would like to spend more time on arts and crafts activities, while 83 percent said making homemade gifts and spending time with families are two of "bright spots" during the rough economy.

Mendoza said she used to go to the Michaels stores in San Mateo and Redwood City but is happy to have one that is closer by. She saves money by making her own party favors and Christmas ornaments.

"It's very convenient and economical," Mendoza said. "The prices are good and they have everything."

Andrea Ouse, Colma's city planner, said the space -- once occupied by Drug Barn -- had been empty for about a year. She said she's pleased that Michaels chose to lease the building. The chain's success, she said, is a "byproduct of our time."

The town's other big-box businesses, such as Target, Home Depot and Best Buy, are faring well.

On Wednesday, the Town Council approved an economic development strategy to enhance its new and older businesses.

Ouse said Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft store on 75 Colma Blvd. shouldn't feel any competition from Michaels because it occupies a different market niche.

"A large population of people with children and senior (citizens) are looking to do all types of projects," said Colma Mayor Joanne del Rosario. "It's a great store and fits everybody."

Staff writer Christine Morente covers faith, families, Burlingame and North County. She can be reached at 650-348-4333 or cmorente@bayareanewsgroup.com.