Since Sept. 11, we have seemingly listened daily to the retail woes and experts forecasts of slow economic times. However, Kitsap County seems to be bucking that trend if sales at Kitsap Mall are any indicator.

In 2001, sales at the mall reached an all time high. For the first time in it’s 17-year history, Kitsap Mall reached the landmark of $400 in sales per square foot for comparable sales. This industry benchmark puts the mall in a higher category to attract new tenants such as Forever 21, Famous Footwear, Journey’s and its newest addition Whitehall Jewelers.

Although sales for the fourth quarter didn’t increase at the same rate as the previous three quarters. Total sales were up over 6 percent, for the full year.

Individual categories also saw significant increases in total sales. The shoe category increased almost 52 percent, due in part to the addition of Famous Footwear. The apparel category had a sales increase of over 33.5 percent, followed by food court (+15 percent) and general merchandise (+12 percent).

“We certainly had a positive year,” stated Dan Engelhard, Kitsap Mall’s general manager. “Kitsap County is a great place for retailers right now and we hope to only improve our sales and stores in the future.”

Kitsap Mall as over 110 shops and services. For more information visit www.ShopKitsapMall.com.