By RODNEY HART
Herald-Whig Staff Writer

San Diego-based PETCO has announced tentative plans to open a store at the Quincy Mall in October 2009.

PETCO, which has more than 900 stores in 49 states, will open a 13,500 square-foot store near the site of the former Kroger building directly north of Starbucks at 3115 Broadway.

The store will use PETCO's "rover layout" and will feature a circular race track aisle. Spokesman Ryan May said the store will offer traditional pets like cats and dogs, along with birds, reptiles and other small animals.

"Animals will greet customers at the center of the store, and the grooming department will resemble a salon and day spa," May said.

Peoria-based Principal Construction Management and Design, a wholly owned subsidiary of Quincy Mall owner Cullinan Properties, will provide architectural and construction management.

Cullinan Properties bought the 532,123-square-foot Quincy Mall and adjacent strip center in 2006. Starbucks and TGI Fridays are major recent additions on the property.

Frank Natanak, group president of real estate and marketing for Cullinan Properties, said there are "a few other things brewing" at the Quincy Mall.

Natanak said PETCO is a big plus for the mall and its shoppers.

"We felt PETCO needed to be in the market. There was a void in the mall and we wanted convenience for our shoppers," Natanak said. "PETCO is a very big deal for us ... We did it for the value that it brings to the shopping center. They are happy and we are happy they are coming."

Ryan said PETCO chose Quincy because of the location.

"We place new stores in growing neighborhoods where other retailers are located to make sure our customers have a convenient shopping experience (and) can take care of all their shopping needs in one place," Ryan said.

-- rhart@whig.com/221-3370