New stores, restaurants Geneva, Algonquin Commons

There was a time not too long ago when much of the news along the Randall Road corridor was of stores and restaurants closing.

Many storefronts sat vacant, and not many new businesses were coming in to fill them up.

But more and more lately, the news coming in is of new stores and restaurants opening to take up some of those vacated spaces.

Just last week Sephora, an upscale beauty products store, opened in Geneva Commons.

Before the store even opened, people were lined up outside waiting to get in.

Next month, Five Guys Burgers and Fries also will be joining Geneva Commons.

To the north, Algonquin Commons is welcoming many new businesses, too.

Motherhood Maternity, which sells clothes and accessories for moms-to-be, recently opened in the mall. So did Knock It Off, which sells designer-inspired purses and accessories, such as scarves and sunglasses.

Suithouse, which, of course, sells suits, is now also open at Algonquin Commons.

Later this month, a store called Charming Charlie, which sells accessories such as handbags, jewelry and belts in a boutique-type atmosphere, is opening in the mall.

Next month, Rue 21, which sells clothes and accessories for men and women, will open in Algonquin Commons, too.

And this fall, Gordman's, which is new to the Chicagoland market, will open in the mall. It is billed as a discount department store, with clothes, shoes and more for men, women and children.

Mall officials say they're also in talks with other prospective businesses to fill up empty spots.

Cathy Charhut, property manager at Geneva Commons, said things have been looking up.

“Things are going very well,” Charhut said.

While she said she can't name any of the businesses they're in talks with right now, it does look like more new businesses will be joining Geneva Commons in the near future.

“The economy really hurt everybody, but things seem to really be on the upswing,” she said.

Free gift: If you're out and about shopping at some of the stores in Geneva Commons, you'll want to save your receipts.If you bring $75 or more in receipts spent at Geneva Commons dated March 16 or later to Kirkland's, you'll get a free vase.While supplies last, you'll get a 12-inch ceramic vase available in three different styles for you to choose from.There is a limit of one vase per customer.#376; Amy Williams' column covers all the news of business along the Randall Road corridor from Batavia to Crystal Lake. Contact her at randallbiz@comcast.net or (847) 894-5036.