CBRE Announces Availability of Historic Candy Factory Building in Downtown San Diego

CBRE has announced the availability of the historic Candy Factory Building in Downtown San Diego. The three‑story property, located at 280 10th Avenue, will be available to lease starting May 1.

CBRE’s Dick Balestri, Tyler Jemmett and Anna Barnes will represent the owners in leasing the property.

Originally built in 1924, the 29,531‑square‑foot building has been preserved as part of the Ballpark District redevelopment and maintains its historic brick façade adjacent to Petco Park and Gallagher Square.

“The Candy Factory Building represents a rare opportunity to occupy one of the most recognizable and historically significant properties in Downtown San Diego,” said Balestri, senior vice president at CBRE. “With its historic character, prime Ballpark District location and exceptional visibility, it offers an unparalleled experience for tenants seeking a flagship presence in this vibrant neighborhood.”

The building spans three floors with flexible office configurations:

• First Floor (8,810-square-feet): reception area, private offices, conference rooms, focus rooms, open workspace and direct double‑door access into Gallagher Square.
• Second Floor (10,061-square-feet): predominantly open office layout with private offices, conference rooms, breakout areas and a break room.
• Third Floor (10,660-square-feet): mix of executive window‑lined offices, interior offices, conference rooms, focus rooms and open workspace.

From 1905 to 1951, the property was home to one of California’s largest confectionery operations, founded by brothers B. Guy Showley and J. Ray Showley. The building remains one of the few surviving reminders of early industrial‑era Downtown San Diego.

“The Candy Factory Building gives tenants the chance to be in the middle of the ballpark experience,” said Caroline Perry, Chief Operating Officer, San Diego Padres. “From Padres games to concerts and daily activity at Gallagher Square, it’s an unmatched opportunity to be connected to the energy, excitement and momentum that defines Petco Park.”

Adjacent to Gallagher Square, the building offers immediate access to the venue’s recently completed $20 million in improvements, which added expanded outdoor seating, pickleball courts, entertainment areas and more than 40 concerts per year.

The property provides prominent signage visibility from visitors attending games, concerts and special events at Petco Park. Tenants will have access to 100 parking spaces in the Padres Parkade.