Oregon Public Broadcasting

The City of Portland announced Wednesday, that the retailer 'H&M' will open a store in Pioneer Place this fall.

Megan Doern, of the Portland Business Alliance, says it's exciting to be able to welcome the world's third biggest clothing retailer.

Megan Doern: "It's fashion forward but very affordable pricing. And it does attract a lot of younger shoppers, which would be a great thing for downtown."

Portland, like many towns, has seen a lot of shops close during the recession.

Doern says the Portland Business Alliance has two representatives at the 'International Conference of Shopping Centers.' They're talking to national retailers considering expansions.

The city is also looking at 'Pop-up Stores' again.

That's when empty shops are given over to local designers and artists for free for a short time. It provides a venue for sales and can brighten a bleak retail area.