Market News
Boost Moblie & Choice Thrift Signs Lease at Bloomington Commons, Bringing Shopping Center to Full Occupancy
July 23, 2026
Choice Thrift Signs Lease at Bloomington Commons, Bringing Shopping Center to Full Occupancy
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — Choice Thrift has signed a lease for approximately 4,500 square feet at 1701 E. Empire Street, Suite 305 in Bloomington Commons, with the nonprofit retailer expected to open later this year.
Choice Thrift will occupy a portion of the former Lumber Liquidators space. The balance of the space was leased earlier this year to Boost Mobile, which celebrated its grand opening in July. Together, the two leases bring Bloomington Commons to 100% occupancy, marking another milestone for one of Bloomington-Normal's premier retail destinations.
Choice Thrift is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that combines a traditional thrift store while supporting local charitable organizations. The concept features monthly partnerships with local nonprofits, encouraging donations and shopping that directly benefit organizations serving the Bloomington-Normal community.
"Reaching full occupancy at Bloomington Commons is a tremendous accomplishment," said Meghan O'Neal, CCIM, Managing Broker of AXIS 360 Commercial Real Estate Specialists, who represented the landlord in the transaction. "Choice Thrift is a unique addition to the tenant mix because it not only provides an exciting retail experience but also creates a meaningful community impact through its partnerships with local nonprofit organizations. Combined with the recent opening of Boost Mobile, these leases demonstrate the continued strength of the Bloomington retail market."
Bloomington Commons continues to attract a diverse mix of national, regional, and locally owned businesses, reinforcing East Empire Street's position as one of Central Illinois' strongest retail corridors.
Meghan O'Neal-Rogozinski, CCIM of AXIS 360 Commercial Real Estate Specialists represented the landlord in the lease transaction.
Choice Thrift
More information can be found on their website: https://www.choicethrift.org/
About AXIS 360 Commercial Real Estate Specialists
AXIS 360 is a locally owned boutique real estate company with combined experience of close to forty years in commercial real estate brokerage. AXIS 360 is the culmination of extensive industry experience and strong relationships. AXIS 360 was founded on the principles of service and trust. Our brokers have decades of local commercial real estate knowledge and extensive professional networks. We take pride in our outstanding reputation in the Bloomington-Normal and surrounding McLean County community.
Media Contact: Sue Etherton, [email protected], 309-270-1565