A spokeswoman with the Chattanooga, TN-based CB&L Associates tells GlobeSt.com that the space was leased quickly, and there is no more big box space remaining at the 2005-built Southaven Towne Center at Airways Boulevard and Marathon Way just south of Memphis, TN. "Having addressed the big box spaces, the remaining space available is for the smaller shops," the spokeswoman adds. "The center is very well-leased, but there is still an opportunity for retailers and restaurants to join."

The new 34,000 square foot hhgregg will locate in the space previously occupied by Circuit City while the 18,000 square foot Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft will locate in the space previously occupied by Cost Plus World Market. Construction on the new stores is underway with openings scheduled for late 2009 and early 2010.

CBL & Associates developed the center to take advantage of an area that was underserved by retailers, and the spokeswoman points out that the speed at which the space was re-leased is a testament to the demand for retail. Anchor stores are Dillard's, JCPenney, Gordmans, Ashley Homestore, Pier One Imports and Books-A-Million. The lifestyle center, with parking, encompasses more than 196 acres.

The spokeswoman declined to discuss specifics in terms of occupancy, saying that CBL & Associates releases those figures on an annual basis. She also says the company hasn't announced any plans concerning the center, other than to continue owning and operating. "We have a history of owning what we develop for the long term," she adds.