Queens Chronicle: Dromm Welcomes Rego Center Anchors

From Queens Chronicle: By Sergey Kadinsky

The cold rain of a March weekday gave way to crowds and discounts rivaling Black Friday, as Century 21 opened its Rego Park location on Wednesday. “We love the entire area. Demographics, culture, foot traffic and enthusiasm,” said Century 21 Vice President Eddie Gindi. “We’re always located in strong communities, providing designer clothing at a very good price.”

The store is an anchor tenant at the 600,000-square-foot Rego Center II mall and will share space with Kohl’s, Costco and TJ Maxx. Kohl’s also opened its space on Wednesday. The events drew praise from public officials, who are familiar with the retailer’s downtown Manhattan flagship location. “We know about its vibrancy and vitality to the area,” said Deputy Mayor Robert Lieber. “The reopening of that flagship store after 9/11 is an important sign for all of us.” Lieber also congratulated Century 21 for providing some 500 jobs in partnership with the city-run Workforce Career Centers, which directed job applicants to the retailer.

“This is a great thing for my district,” said Councilman Danny Dromm (D-Jackson Heights). “It brings in much-needed jobs.” Wearing a necktie in the store's signature red color, Dromm also spoke of the retailer’s philanthropic efforts. “Century 21 gives back to the Police Museum,” he said, speaking about the connection between the flagship store and a museum in that neighborhood.

“We are getting to know the local charities,” Gindi said. “We will be involved with community centers, Little Leagues, and anybody who comes to us. We would love to contribute.” The company was founded in 1961 by Al Gindi, and passed down to family members. Executives consider the family ties a boon for the company. “This is a family-owned business, and we want our customers to be treated as guests in a home,” said corporate relations director Betty Cohen. “Their prices are very low for everything,” said Kew Gardens resident Cyntia Gomar. “I was getting coupons this week at my home and my train station.”

Taking a tour of the facility, Dromm praised developer Vornado Realty for including a community room in the expanded mall. “It’s very important to have a connection to the community,” he said.

Following the ribbon-cutting, delegates took advantage of the opening day discounts, with Borough President Helen Marshall purchasing shoes, and Dromm selecting neckties. On the floor below, Kohl’s also had a grand opening, touting the environmental design of the store. “This is our first green community store,” said Kohl’s District Manager Victor Eckert. “We have high-efficiency heating and cooling, and occupancy lighting that automatically shuts off in unused rooms.” On March 14, TJ Maxx will hold its grand opening. No date has been set for the Costco opening in Rego Park.