By: Business in Denver, CO

Opening a department store in Denver, CO offers promising prospects in the retail industry. This article aims to provide an overview of the resident distribution, crucial residential and commercial areas, and shed light on the viability of department stores in Denver. Additionally, it will delve into the necessary investment and potential returns, while highlighting suitable locations for department store establishments.

Resident Distribution in Denver, CO:

Denver, Colorado, is the most populous city in the state. With a diverse population of over 700,000 residents, the city attracts people from various backgrounds, interests, and income levels. To ensure the success of a department store, understanding the target audience is crucial. Denver’s distribution of residents includes suburban families, young professionals, and retirees, making it a favorable market for department stores catering to different demographics.

Crucial Residential Areas:

  1. Cherry Creek: Located southeast of downtown Denver, Cherry Creek is a vibrant residential area known for its upscale homes, trendy restaurants, and highend retail outlets. With a high average household income, this neighborhood presents an ideal location for a department store targeting affluent customers.
  2. Highland: Situated northwest of downtown Denver, Highland has undergone rapid development in recent years. It attracts a mix of young professionals and families, known for their interest in the latest trends and communityfriendly spaces. A department store in Highland could tap into this market and provide convenience to residents.

Commercial Zones in Denver:

  1. Downtown Denver: The city center is a bustling commercial hub with an array of retail, dining, and entertainment options. Many residents and tourists frequent this area, making it an appealing location for a department store. Investing in a downtown location can attract a diverse customer base, including office workers, tourists, and residents.
  2. Union Station: Since its revitalization, Union Station has become a vibrant destination encompassing retail, dining, and entertainment establishments. Its close proximity to major transportation hubs attracts commuters and visitors alike. A department store in Union Station can leverage these factors, providing easy access to potential customers.

Investment and Return on Investment:

Opening a department store requires substantial funding for acquiring a suitable property, leasing or purchasing inventory, staff salaries, marketing expenses, and other operational costs. While the exact capital investment can vary significantly depending on the size and location of the store, a rough estimate for a midsized department store in Denver would range from $1 million to $3 million.

Regarding return on investment, the success of a department store largely relies on factors such as product range, pricing, customer service, and marketing strategies. On average, department stores in the United States achieve salestosquarefoot figures ranging from $150 to $250. Therefore, a wellmanaged department store in Denver can expect annual revenues of $3 million to $5 million.

Department stores have a promising future in Denver, CO, due to its diverse and growing population. Selecting suitable locations, such as Cherry Creek, Highland, downtown Denver, or Union Station, can ensure access to the target market and enhance a store’s visibility. While substantial capital investment is necessary, a properly managed department store in Denver can yield impressive returns, contributing to the city’s thriving retail sector.