Malls Embrace Change and Experience a Resurgence in the Evolving World
Machesney Park Town Center in Illinois is adapting to the changing retail landscape by repurposing its space to attract new businesses. With the closure of thousands of retail stores in 2020, malls have had to evolve to survive. The town center is transforming its 500,000 square foot space to accommodate a therapeutic day school, a storage facility, Top Dogs Pizza, Starbucks, and a medical storage company. By embracing flexibility and seeking out new tenants, the center has seen a nearly 10% rise in occupancy levels even before the pandemic. However, more businesses are needed to fill the remaining space and contribute to the growth of Machesney Park.