Few department stores are adding locations of the size that was available at Quail Springs Mall, which may have limited the mall owner's options, he added.

“There's not a huge market for anchor space around the country. It would have most likely taken a number of years, in my opinion, to have recruited someone to the space,” he said. “Von Maur is a good get.”

Von Maur's stores are furnished with antiques and in-store pianists entertain shoppers during business hours. Customer service includes free, year-round gift wrapping. The stores carry upscale national and specialty brands like Coach, Kate Spade, Free People, Eileen Fisher, Joe's Jeans and Tommy Bahama.

Renovation of the space begins this summer and will include an exterior brick facade. The store eventually will employ 150-175 workers.