By JAMES FINK
jfink@bizjournals.com | 716-541-1611

A pair of recently closed A.J. Wright stores are being eyed by New York City-based retailer Conway Stores Inc. as possible sites for its first Upstate locations.

Real estate sources said Conway is negotiating to occupy former A.J. Wright locations in University Plaza and Thruway Plaza. The chain also may take over a recently closed location in Delaware Consumer Square in North Buffalo.

Officials from Conway Stores could not be reached for comment.

Sources said Conway is looking to open the local stores by late summer if it reaches a deal with the respective landlords.

A fourth A,J. Wright in West Seneca's Southgate Plaza is also being considered, but Conway has not yet decided on that deal.

The retailer may be considering at least one Niagara County location, as well.

Four area A.J. Wright stores closed earlier this year as part of a nationwide plan by its parent company, TJX Inc. In all, 71 stores were closed.

Conway, a well-known deep-discounter, offers men's, women's and children's apparel, as well as home goods such as towels, sheets,  blankets and health/beauty aids. The chain has 49 stores in nine states including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Georgia and Connecticut.

The bulk of its New York stores are centered around the five boroughs, along with sites in Westchester County and surrounding counties.