Thunder Bay BIA says Teleperformance building ideal for retail

Superior Morning5:47Life After Teleperformance

Another empty store front. That's the worst case scenario when Teleperformance Canada closes its operation on Red River Road this spring. But Jim Comuzzi, head of the Waterfront Business Improvement Association says he's feeling more optimistic.

The chair of Thunder Bay's Waterfront District Business Improvement Association is calling the closure of Teleperformance a significant loss, but said it also presents an opportunity for renewal in the area.

Jim Comuzzi said the former Eaton's store, leased by Teleperformance, is a gorgeous building in the city's downtown north core.

"I believe that, with the configuration of the inside of the old Eaton's building, there is a possibility to turn it into some good shopping and some good retail stores."

• Target, Teleperformance closures cut nearly 400 jobs in Thunder Bay

The BIA will meet next week to discuss what role it can play in finding a new tenant. He said the association is also hoping to meet with the building's owner.

Hes hopeful the association can have some input on future tenants.

"In every cloud you've got to find that silver lining and the fact that it is a very important corner of the city and downtown north core that is growing, I would love to see retail."