The empty 420,000-square-foot former Gottschalks distribution center looms like a 500-pound gorilla over the industrial landscape in Madera.

It is the main reason the industrial vacancy rate in Madera has shot up to 13.27%, says Tammy Katuin of TK Consulting, which studies commercial realty trends.

Interest in the building has been steady, but its size is a drawback. Nonetheless, leasing agents are hopeful it can be nearly full by year's end, she said.