Starbucks one of three chains moving into new Welland commercial space

A new commercial space on Niagara Street in Welland that will include a new Pizza Hut Express, Starbucks and Sleep Country Canada. KRIS DUBE / TORSTAR

By Chris Dube
Courtesy of The Welland Tribune

Three major chains — Starbucks, Sleep Country Canada and a Pizza Hut Express — will be setting up shop in a new commercial space on Niagara Street in Welland, in a lot next to MT Bellies.

Greg Chew, Colliers International’s leasing agent for the site, confirmed that Starbucks and Sleep Country Canada will be tenants.

In a listing on the commercial real estate agency’s website, the new Pizza Hut is named as an upcoming occupant, and there is one unit still available at the property.

Hundreds of Pizza Hut locations in the U.S. and Canada are expected to close in the near future to make way for takeout-only restaurants, according to media reports in both countries.

A spokesperson for the chain was not immediately available Thursday to discuss the future of the existing dine-in location a short distance away on Niagara Street.

Ward 4 Coun. Bryan Green, one of two politicians who represent the north end of Welland, said he is pleased that major retailers such as the ones moving in have their sights set on the city, especially during a pandemic.

“Even with all the uncertainty, they still see business opportunities in Welland,” said Green.

He said he’s heard from residents and businesses worried that a major chain like Starbucks could take away from independent coffee shops.

But with thousands of homes slated for development in the coming years through subdivisions at Hunters Pointe and in Dain City, Green believes this is something people will want.

“I think there will be demand for more of these types of establishments,” he said. “I think everyone will be able to co-exist.”

A gas station, car wash and convenience store are under construction in the parking lot of Seaway Mall.

Ground was broken last month on a 98-unit, $20-million apartment building at Lancaster Drive and Niagara Street. And an affordable housing project is also on the city’s radar in the neighbourhood.

“Niagara Street is going to be a busy place,” Green said.