Retailers are snapping up empty storefronts despite the recession. For a rundown of new stores in town, read this story.

Kwirkworld was scheduled to open today. Has anyone checked it out yet? (Are the bacon vs. tofu action figures as cool as they sound?)

I also find it absolutely fascinating that MAC Cosmetics is opening two doors down from Sephora in Fashion Fair mall. For those who don't know, MAC is an extremely popular cosmetics brand. The brand has a kiosk inside the mall and a counter in Macy's already, both of which will stay once the new store opens.

Retail consultant Jeff Green, however, says there's enough customers for all three them. He envisions that corner of the mall as a "beauty hub" in which shoppers hit up both Sephora and MAC.

I'd love to be in a Sephora worker's shoes and see how this effects customer habits at Sephora -- if it all.