NATIONAL: National fashion houses Just Group, Colorado and Sussan are believed to be among a high profile list of retailers who have demanded rent relief from Australia's major shopping centre landlords.
According to a report in News Limited newspapers, the high street fashion chains are intent on following their US and UK counterparts in demanding rent holidays and reduced fees in an attempt to stave off store closures following the economic credit crunch.
The shopping centre groups being targeted include Westfield Group, Centro Properties, Lend Lease and AMP.
Australian Retailers Association executive director Richard Evans has apparently welcomed the move, telling the newspaper that around 30 per cent of the leases of ARA's 5000 members are up for renewal this year.
"In Australia, the worst case scenario for Westfield and other owners is an empty shopping centre. Consumers do not like shopping in empty centres."