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Business & Tech

Walgreens Proposes 'High-End' Concept Store for Former Borders Location

Groceries, services and sushi could be included in the plan for the former retail space at Sunset and Vine. The proposal is scheduled to be presented to the Central Hollywood Neighborhood Council on March 26.

Walgreens is planning to open a new concept store in the vacant retail space at Sunset Boulevard and Vine Street where customers could nosh on sushi, get a manicure or shop for groceries while having a prescription filled. 

The drugstore chain's proposal for the 23,500 square-foot space at 1501 Vine St.—the former location of a last year—is similar to prototypes the company has opened in New York City and Chicago (pictured at right).

“It’s very different from a traditional Walgreens store,” said Matt Dzurec, a land-use planner for Walgreens. “It’s very high-end and contemporary.”

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Store features would include a nail salon, a beauty center with makeup artists, and sushi prepared onsite, Dzurec said. Customers could pick up groceries, including fresh fruits and vegetables, coffee, fine cheese, some meat items and higher-end alcohol. A frozen yogurt station is also in the plans.

As part of the new concept, customers would have a chance to interact and have one-on-one consultations with pharmacists who will not be required to stand behind a counter as they do at typical drugstores. 

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“In the heart of Hollywood," Dzurec said, "it makes sense for this type of place."

Dzurec presented the proposal to the  last week. Council members could not take action on the proposal because they lacked a quorum. The plan is now scheduled to be presented to the council for a vote on March 26.

Dzurec said Walgreens hopes to open the store in the fall.

Local Reaction

David Carrera, a board member of the Central Hollywood Neighborhood Council, said he would be looking forward to having a new tenant in the now vacant space.

“It’s just a tragedy that Borders left and to have that space empty,” Carrera said. “I think [the Walgreens plan] will be better than Borders. I’m excited about it. It’s kind of special.”

Hours for the store have not been set, Dzurec said. Interior renovations of the space have already begun, according to the neighborhood council's agenda.

Bambi Martin, who owns the neighboring also located at Sunset and Vine, said she is ambivalent about Walgreens coming to the neighborhood. She heard about the possible development.

“I have mixed feelings, but it will be nice to have another anchor store in the Sunset and Vine Center,” Martin said. “The more high-end they can make it the better. That is the vision we all have for Hollywood. Bring back the glam.”

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