The challenge of enticing upscale and unique retailers to the Old Town Newhall Redevelopment area has encountered another hurdle in the merger of Wild Oats Markets into Whole Foods Markets. Wild Oats had been seen as a potential retailer for the Old Town (Downtown) Newhall area, since they had apparently been looking to expand before the merger talks began. After the merger is complete, Whole Foods will own 84.1 percent of the outstanding shares of Wild Oats. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) had attempted to block the deal, saying that it created less competition and higher prices for premium grocery stores. However, the U.S. Court of Appeals refused to delay the sale in a decision last week. So, Old Town Newhall is still desperately seeking retailers to bring to the area once they chase away all of the current "undesireables", or existing retail, service and automotive-related businesses. They're facing stiff competition in the retail arena, with Bridgeport Marketplace already under construction, and the Valencia Town Center Mall expansion has been approved as well. These two new and expanded Valencia locations will bring an abundance of new shopping and dining venues to the Santa Clarita Valley, and they'll have the pick of the litter when it comes to attracting new retail and dining choices to the area. Newhall will be lucky to play second fiddle in this new retail game. No wonder the Old Town Newhall Sell-Off is in full swing, with property owners attempting to get their profits while they can! | 
