T.J. Maxx opens in Burbank

AIRPORT DISTRICT — Discount retailer T.J. Maxx opened its doors at the Empire Center over the weekend, filling one of the property’s major vacancies and hoping to capitalize on increased consumer interest in savings during the recession.

The store, which offers discounted items from designer brands, filled a 24,400-square-foot space left behind by Shoe Pavilion, although a space formerly occupied by Linens N’ Things remains vacant.

The store’s offerings will not only give Burbank shoppers more options, but will be an attractive choice for consumers who have grown conscious of their purchasing habits during the economic downturn, said Mary Hamzoian, Burbank’s economic development manager

“It definitely helps fill up one of the vacant spots, but it also is a good price point for the city,” Hamzoian said. “It’s a good fit for the holiday season.”

The store plans to emphasize savings at a time when consumers are more aware of the value of their purchases, said Thea Houghton, a spokeswoman for T.J. Maxx.

Houghton emphasized major discounts on popular items that the store would promote throughout the holiday season.

T.J. Maxx chose Burbank as part of its continual search for new markets that fit its customer demographic, Houghton said.

“We tend to just go where people are fashion-conscious, but also value-conscious, so we thought it would be really good location for us,” she said.

T.J. Maxx also added 60 full- and part-time jobs to the shopping center, the company said.

The store will likely be a good fit for Burbank, where residents have previously driven to Glendale or La Cañada Flintridge for special offers from T.J. Maxx, said Gary Olson, executive director of the Burbank Chamber of Commerce.

“The convenience factor is going to be very appealing in Burbank,” Olson said.

Although Burbank still has major retail vacancies left behind by Mervyn’s, Circuit City and Linens N’ Things, the addition of T.J. Maxx is an indication that businesses are interested in locating in Burbank, Hamzoian said.

“It does create a lot of economic vitality, and it just goes to show that when one thing goes out, then something better will come in,” Hamzoian said.