Shoe Department Encore, a major footwear retailer based in North Carolina, has closed its large 14,000-square-foot store at Crystal Mall in Connecticut.
Reports indicate a new tenant is already set to take over the space.
Shoe Department Encore Shuts Crystal Mall Store
The closure signifies a major shift in the retail landscape, impacting shoppers and employees. According to The Middletown Press, during Monday's inquiries, an employee confirmed the chain's decision to cease operations at this location.
Shoe Dept Encore offers a wide selection of popular brands at affordable prices, according to the store's website information. Their inventory includes footwear for women, men, and children, handbags, accessories, and shoe care products.
Founded in 1960 in Kannapolis, North Carolina, Shoe Show, Inc. has become a cornerstone of the footwear industry, focusing on delivering quality products, excellent service, and great value, as stated on the company's website.
The U.S. Sun highlighted that the company's enduring success is attributed to its commitment to incorporating technological advancements and operational efficiencies. This includes standardizing store layouts, operating a modern distribution center, and implementing advanced computer systems seamlessly connecting stores and vendors.
Based in Concord, the company's headquarters and distribution center are the central hub for its nationwide operations.
Shoe Show, Inc. is actively supporting various charitable organizations and initiatives aimed at enhancing local communities, according to information on the company's website.
With over 60 years in the industry, Shoe Show, Inc. continues to thrive.
Meanwhile, Patch reported that the Crystal Mall has seen many stores leave in recent years, with JC Penney, the last anchor store, closing last month.
Namdar Realty Group bought the mall at auction last year and is considering selling or redeveloping the property.
Built in 1984 and expanded in 1987, the two-story, 535,494-square-foot mall sits on 82 acres at 850 Hartford Turnpike in Waterford.
Mall managers across the state are looking at options due to declining business, with some considering residential redevelopment. For example, a developer at Westbrook Outlets is planning a $425 million project with 595 apartments, 100 townhomes, a hotel, restaurants, and entertainment space.
Pete's RV Center Opens Pop-Up Sales Site at Crystal Mall
In a positive development, Pete's RV Center, an eight-location dealership group based in Vermont with a presence in Connecticut, has launched a temporary retail center in one of Crystal Mall's parking lots.
According to Matthew Palmer, a sales manager at Pete's RV Center's South Windsor location, the sales operation debuted over Memorial Day weekend. This marks the second consecutive year that Pete's RV has utilized the mall's parking lot for a pop-up site.
"It's convenient for residents who prefer not to travel to our South Windsor location," Palmer noted.
The pop-up has proven highly successful this year, exceeding expectations in sales. Due to its success, Pete's RV extended its stay beyond the planned end date in June, as The Middletown Press reported.
Palmer reported that they have completed 44 in the past months. He also noted the success of their operations.
Regarding the lease arrangement for the mall parking lot, Palmer clarified that Pete's RV pays a modest fee to Namdar Realty Group, the mall's owner.
Palmer says this arrangement benefits both parties by increasing foot traffic to the mall's stores.
The closure of Shoe Department Encore, which had four remaining Connecticut locations in Groton, Manchester, Milford, and Waterbury, is another setback for Crystal Mall, situated near the junction of Hartford Turnpike and Interstate 95.
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