PLATTSBURGH -- Many local businesses aren't worried about losing customers when Target opens.

In fact, they expect to see more.

"Target is going to be an overall plus for the economy of the community; it is a regional draw," said Sue Matton, Plattsburgh-North Country Chamber of Commerce vice president for economic development. "Existing businesses, both in and outside the mall, should see an increase in foot traffic."

Target is expected to open Sunday at Champlain Centre mall at a site formerly occupied by Ames.

Matton said there might be a short amount of time after Target's opening that other businesses, including Wal-Mart, suffer, but it won't last.

"After that initial curiosity, everyone is going to benefit. We will draw in new people who have never come."

The uniqueness of having a Target in Plattsburgh -- the next closest store is in Queensbury -- will also be a factor in drawing new customers to the area, Matton said.

Matton doesn't expect Target will have the same impact as Wal-Mart did when it came to Plattsburgh.

"Target is another option, but (it's) not a new concept, like when Wal-Mart first came to town."

Even Wal-Mart, likely Target's largest competition in the area, is acting upbeat about the store's opening.

Spokesperson Ashley Hardie said Wal-Mart welcomes Target because competition benefits customers and helps keep prices low.

David Collin, 60, owner of Viking Ski and Cycle on Route 3, said the addition of Target should help local businesses, including his own.

"The more people you draw to the area, the better off we are going to be, and, of course, we're obviously very close to Target, so people will see us as they drive by," Collin said.

Employees at many stores within Champlain Centre said they expect Target to increase traffic in the mall.

"It's a very exciting thing for the mall and for mall tenants," said David Napolitan, Champlain Centre general manager.