Tampa’s WestShore Plaza Set to Lose Macy’s as Mall Faces Redevelopment Challenges

Tampa Faces Closure of Macy’s at WestShore Plaza Following Sale

City: Tampa

What: Employees confirm that the Macy’s store at WestShore Plaza is set to close after the holiday shopping season.

Where: WestShore Plaza, a well-known shopping mall located at the intersection of Kennedy and Westshore boulevards in Tampa.

When: The anticipated closure is expected in February or March 2024.

Why: The WestShore Plaza’s owner, Washington Prime Group, recently purchased the Macy’s property and is planning significant redevelopment.

Overview of the Situation

The announcement comes just weeks after Washington Prime Group acquired the Macy’s property for $10 million. Employees were informed earlier in August about the potential for the store’s closure, and many have already transitioned to jobs at nearby locations. However, corporate representatives from Macy’s have not confirmed or denied the closure.

Declining Foot Traffic and Retail Shifts

WestShore Plaza is facing issues similar to those impacting malls across the country; foot traffic is dwindling as shoppers increasingly seek experiences over traditional retail. With names like Dick’s Sporting Goods having already left for more popular shopping locations, the closure of Macy’s could further diminish customer interest in the mall.

Once the premier shopping destination in Tampa, WestShore Plaza has been losing its appeal since the opening of International Plaza in 2001, which now features luxury brands and high-end retailers. Formerly anchored by Saks Fifth Avenue, WestShore has undergone significant changes, reflecting a trend of malls evolving or struggling to remain relevant in today’s market.

Future Plans for WestShore Plaza

The mall, originally opened in 1967, is now being reimagined by its new owner. Washington Prime Group has received city approval to transform this 52-acre property into a mixed-use development, which will include more retail spaces, restaurants, a hotel, and apartments totaling 1,700 units. Additionally, plans are in place for a Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority transfer station.

Despite these ambitious redevelopment plans, current tenants are left uncertain about their future. Questions remain about the status of their leases and the fate of the soon-to-be vacant Macy’s space, with no specific timeline for construction communicated.

The Impact on Remaining Retailers

As Macy’s prepares for potential closure, the remaining retailers at WestShore Plaza may face challenges. The departure of a major anchor store often results in decreased foot traffic, which subsequently affects sales for smaller shops that rely on that customer flow. Shoppers today experience a quieter atmosphere, with a significant number of vacant spaces throughout the mall. On a recent visit, several storefronts and kiosks were unoccupied, a sign of the ongoing shift in shopping habits.

Some tenants have already left, such as Dick’s Sporting Goods and the former Sears store, where a replacement has yet to be found. Currently, JCPenney remains as an anchor, but with the looming shutdown of Macy’s, its future as a compelling shopping destination looks increasingly precarious.

The Path Ahead

While the WestShore Plaza’s transition is in the works, the immediate future still requires navigating personnel concerns and ensuring that the mall can sustain its current operations. Employees are understandably concerned about the loss of jobs and the impact on their livelihoods, while local residents express anxiety over the mall’s evolving identity.

With redevelopment plans in motion, the ultimate goal for Washington Prime Group is to create a destination that blends shopping with living and leisure space. Whether these plans can keep the spirit of WestShore Plaza alive remains to be seen, as the stark contrast with its nearby competitor continues to highlight its decline.