As retailers get ready for the holiday rush, we thought we would take a step back and consider the broader retail landscape. As a city with rapidly changing demographics, Fremont has experienced firsthand the phenomenon of store offerings not keeping up with demand and buying power. Why does this happen?

While change is part of the retail DNA, the reality is that most retail leases extend for 10-year increments. For larger anchor tenants who have invested heavily in their spaces, renewal options translate into longevity, and this longevity can mean that stores and centers reflect a different time and even a different generation.

Another reason is that retailers, as a general rule, are followers. They go where the market is “proven.” So attracting bellwether tenants like Century Theaters, Whole Foods, and Nordstrom Rack to Fremont has been an important game-changer. Others will follow based on their success. And considering my recent Whole Foods shopping experience at 8:30 p.m. on a Monday night (which felt like the bumper car ride at the Boardwalk), the proof is in the parking lot!

As Fremont’s demographics change to include wealthier households with younger families, higher education levels, and more disposable income, our retail offering is only beginning to catch up. One case in point: Pacific Commons. Pac Commons is already one of the nation’s largest power centers. With stores beginning to open in its new lifestyle center companion, “The Block,” this will be the premiere shopping location between Walnut Creek and San Jose along the 880 corridor. Men’s Wearhouse and Ulta opened earlier this month. Hundreds (yes, hundreds) of people stood in line to welcome them to the neighborhood.

We are ready to embrace more retail to Fremont neighborhoods, including Downtown, Fremont’s newest neighborhood with an ambitious main street retail plan. But in the meantime, we all have some holiday shopping to do. With that in mind, here are some Fremont-inspired gift ideas to keep you busy on Black Friday.

Happy shopping!

Ties at the new Men’s Wearhouse at The Block. This is MW’s first Fremont store, but their corporate headquarters is located in Fremont

Spicely Teas (manufactured in Fremont) at Fremont’s new Whole Foods

Let the “Holiday Helpers” at Whole Foods assist you as you stock up on Holiday feast needs—you will find them throughout the store in red aprons!

Locally made glass pumpkins at the Gift Gallery at Washington West

Greenery of all shades at Fremont Flowers

Can’t afford a Tesla? No problem. This sleek stainless steel tumbler is yours for just $24 at the Tesla Store at the Fremont Factory.