Saturday, September 24, 2022

Malls in America: Everything's coming up roses

 
The Penney's side of West Towne Mall in Madison WI has a forlorn look with its multiple empty storefronts. And it's considered a healthy shopping mall.

Photos by Retiring Guy



Malls have had a rough couple of years during the pandemic, but if you’ve been to one lately you’d never know it. Stores are open and busy, cinnamon buns and pretzels are back, and the food courts are packed with old, familiar sounds and smells. However, it was touch-and-go for a while, not only for the brands that leased space in malls, but also for mall operators and owners. 
A 21-page white paper from Placer.ai covers specific ways some malls have found to thrive in the new normal. According to the report, “After 2 years of isolation and a new, pandemic-induced wave of suburban relocation, malls’ potential to bring people together is more prized than ever.”



And this large space is temporarily occupied by a Halloween store.



Maybe Von Maur's fall 2022 opening will help to revitalize this section of the mall.


Please welcome back Ethel Merman to the Retiring Guy's Digest stage!


Related West Towne area posts:
2022

2021
Portillo's.  (11/23)

2020
West Towne Mall shuttered Shopko UPDATE: Storefront looks less abaondoned in bright winter sunlight.  (12/21)

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