Dept. Store Blocks Use of Easement to Stifle Competition

A Sears Shopping Center in Lincoln Park, Michigan has found a novel way to kill their competitor - close the easement the developer is using to access the property.

1 minute read

October 18, 2011, 9:00 AM PDT

By Tim Halbur


Developer Grand Sakwa Properties LLC sued Sears for access to the 28 ft. wide driveway, which is necessary for them to to redevelop the blighted strip mall next door. Sears won the suit, and was given permission to do as they like with the easement.

Of the 26 retail spaces in the strip mall, only 7 are currently occupied, including a GameStop, Dollar Tree, and a Payless Shoe Source. Grand Saskwa says that lack of access to the easement means they'll have to change their plans and most likely demolish the whole site and replace it with a big box.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011 in The News-Herald

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