Mercer Mall announced on March 3, 2024, that some stores will close. In a message on Facebook, the mall clarified that it is not closing completely. For now, only the entertainment store FYE is set to close.
Mercer Mall Updates: Closures and New Beginnings
The Mercer Mall has confirmed on its social media that it is facing some closures but assured everyone that the mall itself will stay open despite rumors of a complete shutdown.
"FYE has decided to close its doors. We have enjoyed and appreciated FYE's years of business," the mall said.
In addition to the news about FYE, Golden Ticket Cinemas plans to renovate the mall's movie theaters soon and will announce its grand opening in the coming days.
There's more good news for the mall as they announced a new store will join them. This new tenant has signed a lease and plans to start building in several spots around the mall soon. The name of this new store will be shared next week.
"Thank you for your continued support as we navigate the economic changes that all rural malls are facing," the statement said. "We greatly appreciate the support of our loyal and dedicated customers, tenants, and employees."
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Mercer Mall: Decades of Retail Evolution
Mercer Mall, located in Bluefield, West Virginia, has been a shopping destination since its opening in 1980. Today, it hosts significant stores like J. C. Penney, Belk, Roses, Rural King, Hobby Lobby, and 70 other retailers. Ershig Properties manages the mall.
Mercer Mall opened with anchor stores like Sears, J. C. Penney, Montgomery Ward, Stone & Thomas, and Leggett (now Belk). The mall saw its first significant change when Montgomery Ward shut down in 1987, replaced first by Hills and then by Ames in 1999.
Another significant shift was Stone & Thomas' transition to Elder-Beerman and, eventually, Belk's purchase of It for expansion.
The early 2000s brought more changes. Ames closed in 2000, making way for Carolina Pottery until 2006. The spot was taken over by Steve & Barry's, which lasted until 2009 before Roses took over. Hobby Lobby replaced a Belk extension in 2014 when Sears announced its closure. Rural King filled the gap left by Sears, opening its doors in 2017.
On October 10, 2023, the Mercer Mall in Lawrenceville was rebranded to "Mercer on One" by Federal Realty Investment Trust, marking a new chapter for the shopping center. The rebranding introduces the additions of J.Crew Factory and Crate & Barrel Outlet, enhancing the mall's retail mix.
J.Crew Factory will open in 2024 beside DSW, which is also undergoing renovations, while Crate & Barrel is already welcoming customers next to Nike.
Spanning 551,000 square feet, "Mercer on One" is home to various stores and eateries, including Nike, REI, Nordstrom Rack, and Bonefish Grill. It aims to serve as an all-in-one destination for shopping, dining, and gatherings.
The makeover, designed by Ashton Design, seeks to rejuvenate the mall and ensure it remains a vibrant community hub despite evolving consumer trends and preferences.
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