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w w w . i n s i g h t o n b u s i n e s s . c o m S e p t e m b e r 2 0 14 • I NSIGH T | 31 the space for new tenants. "I think it's almost getting to the stage in Appleton where new construction of a Class A office building may be needed," Pfefferle says. While office space availability differs from market to market, another commercial real estate sector – manufacturing – is picking up across the board, local developers say. "We entered the downtown in Fond du Lac extremely short on industrial space and now we are back to that point again," Ackerman says. "Finding industrial space is hard. We take that as an overall good sign for the economy that manufacturers and warehouses are keeping busy and need space." Pfefferle agrees that industrial space is in demand. e Fox Cities, however, does have a unique facility on the market – the former Plexus Corp. manufacturing facility in Neenah. e company vacated the site a year ago when it consolidated facilities into a new, $50 million plant. e vacant Plexus site has more than 180,000 square feet ready for manufacturers. "Overall, the manufacturing and warehousing market is strong. at's a unique space that's available and one that doesn't come around very oen," Pfefferle says. Retail and hospitality markets remain uneasy with some spaces being snapped up – usually by national retailers, Ackerman says. For example, Walgreens is taking a new parcel in Fond du Lac and Kwik Trip, a regional player, is constructing several convenience stores in the area. But at the same time, there are several spaces that previously housed restaurants and bars that remain empty. "We're definitely cautiously optimistic about the future. 2014 has been better so far than 2013," he says. "We're really excited about Green Gecko, since area residents have talked for a long time about the need for a grocery store. Now people living in Richmond Terrace can come down in their socks to grab a cup of coffee (without going outdoors) or pick up something they need. It also fills a key neighborhood need and will attract area residents." – D ave A l l e n , co m m e rc i a l re a l e s t ate d e ve l o p e r I N T H E H O M E ( B U I L D I N G ) S T R E T C H . When it comes to bringing your dream home to life, Johnson Bank's knowledge of the local market and tailored lending solutions is unparalleled. We also offer continued service for the duration of your loan. That means you will benefit from a knowledgeable team dedicated to answering questions and providing advice – long after constr uction is complete. JO H N S O N B A N K . C O M / M O R T G AG E B A N K I N G W E A L T H I N S U R A N C E MEMBER FDIC