Stores set closing dates at Huntley Outlet Center

HUNTLEY – The Huntley Outlet Center soon will be a ghost town, as most stores have set closing dates for later this month through mid-March.

The mall at Route 47 and Interstate 90 was less than half full when it was bought in April by Huntley Investment Partners LLC, which consists of California-based Craig Realty Group, Chicago's Prime Group Inc. and Elgin's Capital Realty and Development.

Since then, the property has fallen into disrepair, and stores have posted liquidation sale signs in windows as their closing dates near.

Wilsons Leather, Ann Taylor Factory Store, L’eggs Hanes Bali Playtex and Huntley Antique and Jewelry Mall have announced February closing dates, and Bass Factory Outlet has set a March 12 closing date.

Darna Furniture and Banana Republic Factory Store have not yet announced closing dates.

John Matousek, owner of Huntley Antique and Jewelry Mall, said his business is moving to Spring Hill Mall in West Dundee, but many stores are not relocating locally.

“It’s a shame they’re tearing down the building,” Matousek said. “Everybody’s really feeling bad about it, but it is what it is.”

No demolition permits have been submitted to the village regarding the property, Huntley Village Manager Dave Johnson said.

However, property developers have said industrial use was being considered for the 77-acre property, and there is expected to be a major overhaul of the property when a new use is determined.

Property owners could not immediately be reached for information.

“It’s an important part of the future of our community, and we’re going to certainly examine and analyze thoroughly any plans that are submitted,” Johnson said, adding that no formal proposals have come before the Huntley Village Board.