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Planning Department presents formula‑retail study; public tests wide spectrum of concerns
Summary
Staff presented a citywide formula‑retail study showing distribution, vacancy trends, and CU approval rates; public testimony ranged from calls to raise the formula threshold to protect local growing businesses to warnings that restrictions could increase vacancies and harm neighborhood access to groceries and jobs.
The Planning Department presented the third of four reports in a formula‑retail study series on April 24, summarizing the distribution and effects of chain (formula) retail across San Francisco and inviting public comment to shape policy recommendations.
Staff said the study found roughly 1,250 formula‑retail establishments citywide accounting for about 12 percent of retailers and an estimated 31 percent of retail square footage. The analysis compared districts with and without controls, showing formula retail concentrated in areas without conditional‑use (CU) controls and in downtown corridors; staff also noted data limits when comparing employment practices between formula and independent retailers.
The presentation outlined policy options under consideration, including raising the threshold that defines formula retail (currently 11 outlets) to 20 or 50, and possible changes to the geographic or business‑type scope of controls. Staff noted that approximately 75 percent of formula‑retail CU applications historically have been approved but that the CU process can deter some chains from pursuing locations in districts with controls.
Public commenters provided extensive and mixed input. Business and property groups (Building Owners and Managers Association; Chamber of Commerce; San Francisco Association of Realtors; Retail West) generally argued for raising the threshold so local firms can scale without triggering CU review and warned that strict controls can leave large storefronts vacant. Neighborhood groups, small‑business advocates and labor‑concerned speakers emphasized preserving neighborhood character, ensuring daily‑needs retail for seniors and low‑income residents, and protecting local hiring and community benefits.
Commissioners emphasized there is no one‑size‑fits‑all solution: several called the CU process largely effective and urged nuance and balance in any changes. Staff said policy recommendations will be shaped by further public feedback, an economic analysis to be heard in May, and Supervisor Mar’s ordinance expected in June.
What’s next: staff will accept comments through mid‑May, publish a final report, and return with policy recommendations and coordinated hearings ahead of June 5 when the supervisor’s revised ordinance may be considered.
