A longtime popular discount fashion, toiletries, toys, and gifts store at 3002 University Avenue is now in liquidation. Discount International Fashions is selling all its merchandise and must vacate the premises by the end of December.

Owner Rafee Zakir said he's been in business almost 18 years and that “10 to 11 of those years were good.” But when the recession came, Zakir says his business dropped off.

Zakir said, “I've seen everything here [in the neighborhood], both good and bad.” He sees the reason for several North Park businesses closing as the “changing of the neighborhood, and becoming more upscale.” Zakir said he has owned several restaurants and hopes to open another one in the future.

Angela Landsberg, executive director of North Park Main Street, said, “We are hoping to get someone [there] who will add to the diverse flavor of North Park.”

The store rent is currently $3500. Zakir predicted that fee to double with a new lessee. The property has 2344 square feet on street level, 550-square-feet of mezzanine, and 400 square feet of storage space.

Nate Benedetto with Strom Commercial Real Estate told the Reader, “We are seeing significant interest on the property. Most of the parties thus far have been restaurant/food-oriented.” But Benedetto said the building's “owners would love to see more interest from retailers/non-restaurant users.”

The location is one of the best locations in North Park, and numerous eateries and bars are scattered in all four directions from it.