**Malls Rethink Their Anchor Tenants Amid Post-Pandemic Resurgence**
After struggling in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, shopping centers across the United States are experiencing a strong resurgence, according to a new report by Placer.ai. A significant factor fueling this recovery is a redefinition of what constitutes an anchor tenant in today’s mall environment.
While traditional department stores such as Macy’s and JCPenney continue to serve an important role, malls are increasingly turning to specialized and experiential retailers to drive foot traffic and anchor their retail spaces. These findings are highlighted in Placer.ai’s latest report, *Rethinking the Mall Anchor in 2025: A Visit-Focused Approach*, which uses cutting-edge location intelligence data to analyze the evolving dynamics of tenant mix.
Key insights from the report include:
– Experiential and niche retailers can generate anchor-level traffic, challenging conventional wisdom around mall design.
– Specific restaurants are proving effective in attracting foot traffic, with visit volume sometimes independent of venue size.
– A diversified tenant mix plays a crucial role in maintaining consistent visitor flow across different days and times.
– Pop-up stores are becoming a valuable component of a visit-focused anchor tenant strategy.
– The integration of new anchor concepts can positively impact performance across the broader spectrum of mall tenants.
The addition of high-profile destination retailers like Scheels exemplifies the strategy. For instance, the opening of a Scheels at Towne East Square in Wichita, Kansas was credited with significantly boosting mall visitation.
Pictured: A Scheels location in Chandler, Arizona.
