Dec 19, 2010

Pop-ups are cropping up for the holidaysBy Jackie CrosbyStarTribune.com

The Museum of Russian Art has been on the lookout for another retail outpost for its popular gift shop for some time. The Mall of America in Bloomington was high on the list because of its tourist draw, but the small nonprofit balked over signing a 10-year lease.

So when a temporary space next to Nordstrom suddenly became available for the holidays, the Minneapolis museum pounced.

“It was a last-minute thing, and we said, ‘Let’s go!'” said Melanie Brooks, buyer and director of the Izba gift store. “We’re tickled to be here. This is our first foray outside the museum, so we really have to weigh it carefully.”

With the recession clearing out mall space and retailers wary of taking risks, temporary stores have been a boon to merchants and landlords alike. Landlords get short-term tenants, and merchants can try out new concepts.

Read complete article.