Information has been leaking out bit-by-bit about the retailers coming to CityCenterDC, and I’ve been hearing a lot about one that may not be coming: Apple.
Multiple sources are telling me that a preliminary deal to bring the tech retailer with the cult-like following on board has fallen through after months of negotiations. Apple Inc. has been among the most prominent retailers that are supposedly signing up for the closely-watched development, scheduled to open this spring.
But now other potential tenants have been touring the space that Apple had originally been eyeing, according to one source who was not authorized to talk about the deal and requested anonymity.
CityCenter developer Hines Interests LP declined to comment Monday. Apple couldn’t be reached for comment.
Reaching a deal with Hines was taking longer than Apple would have liked, according to sources who have toured the site but asked to remain anonymous. Without a slate of retailers announced, the situation could change, so this is one that bears watching.
CityCenterDC is the much-anticipated $690 million mixed-use development on the former convention center site at H and Ninth streets NW that will include 515,000 square feet of office space, a 1.5-acre public park and more than 650 residential units.
Landing an Apple store — part of a select class of destination retail brands that bring instant credibility — would be a huge win for CityCenter. Hines is pursuing these brands as part of a luxury retail focus.
The developer has been extremely tight-lipped about the restaurants and retailers for CityCenter, which will include 330,000 square feet of retail space when it is completed. For restaurants, New York chef Daniel Boulud is the only confirmed tenant with his DBGB Bar & Kitchen.
As far as retailers go, things look pretty good for Burberry, which has existing space on Connecticut Avenue NW being marketed for lease. Kate Spade handbag and accessories shop and Tumi luggage shop have both begun construction at the site.
