Inception and Early Years (1975-1985)
Berkeley Mall opened in 1975 at 625 North Berkeley Boulevard in Goldsboro, North Carolina.
The shopping center launched at a time when enclosed malls were gaining traction across the country, providing local shoppers with a new retail experience.
Developed as a regional shopping hub, it was positioned along a key commercial corridor, ensuring steady traffic from residents and visitors alike.
Weil’s Department Store was one of its original anchor tenants, catering to a wide customer base with clothing, home goods, and accessories.
Other early retailers filled the space, offering a mix of fashion, household items, and specialty products.
Throughout its first decade, the mall became a regular stop for shoppers in Goldsboro and surrounding areas.
The enclosed design provided a climate-controlled shopping experience, which was a welcome alternative to traditional downtown storefronts that relied on street-facing access.
By the early 1980s, the mall had solidified itself as a key retail destination.
During this period, Goldsboro’s economic landscape was shaped by local industries and the nearby Seymour Johnson Air Force Base.
The base brought in a steady flow of military personnel and families, many of whom relied on the mall for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
For those looking for things to do in Goldsboro, NC, a trip to Berkeley Mall often made the list, whether for browsing stores, grabbing a meal, or catching up with friends in a comfortable setting.
As the decade progressed, retail competition grew, but Berkeley Mall continued to serve as a central point for commerce in the region.
Evolution of Anchor Stores (1985-2006)
By the mid-1980s, Berkeley Mall had established itself as a key shopping center in Goldsboro. Over the years, anchor stores changed, reflecting shifts in the retail industry.
Weil’s, one of the original tenants, transitioned to Brody’s, a department store known for clothing and accessories.
In 1998, Brody’s was sold to Proffitt’s, a Tennessee-based department store chain expanding into North Carolina.
The change brought updated branding, remodeled interiors, and new product lines aimed at attracting a wider customer base.
During this period, other major stores in the mall included JCPenney and Sears, both drawing steady foot traffic.
In 2006, Belk acquired Proffitt’s, marking another transition in Berkeley Mall’s retail lineup. The rebranding was part of Belk’s broader expansion across the southeastern United States.
The store carried a mix of clothing, beauty products, and home goods, further solidifying the mall’s role as a regional shopping destination.
Challenges and Resilience (2006-2018)
The late 2000s and early 2010s brought new challenges for Berkeley Mall.
Online shopping was growing rapidly, and large retailers across the country faced declining foot traffic. Despite these trends, the mall remained open and continued to serve Goldsboro residents.
In August 2011, Hurricane Irene damaged the roof near the Belk store. While repairs were made, the storm added to the mall’s operational costs and maintenance needs.
Another major shift came in October 2018, when Sears announced its closure as part of a nationwide restructuring plan.
The loss of a long-standing anchor store left a large vacant space, raising questions about the mall’s future.
Even so, management continued efforts to attract new tenants, aiming to fill empty storefronts with retailers suited to changing consumer habits.
Recent Developments and Current Status
Anchored by Belk, JCPenney, Burlington and Five Below the mall includes popular stores such as American Eagle & Aerie, Bath & Body Works, and Jo-Ann Fabric & Craft.
Shoppers can also find specialty retailers like Foot Locker and GNC, as well as dining options including Olive Garden and LongHorn Steakhouse.
In March 2024, Burlington and Five Below moved into the former Sears location, offering discount apparel, home goods, and budget-friendly merchandise.
These additions aligned with shifting consumer preferences toward value-focused shopping.
Meanwhile, long-standing anchors Belk and JCPenney continued operations, though national trends suggested both companies may be navigating economic pressures.
Various smaller tenants, including national chains and locally owned businesses, maintained a presence within the mall, though store turnover remained an ongoing challenge.
Incidents and Security Measures at Berkeley Mall
In early January 2024, Berkeley Mall in Goldsboro, North Carolina, experienced a security incident that drew significant attention.
On January 4, reports emerged of shots fired within the mall premises, prompting immediate lockdowns of both the mall and the nearby Greenwood School.
Law enforcement responded swiftly, arresting three individuals from Goldsboro.
Each faced charges including attempted murder, discharging a firearm in an enclosure, going armed to the terror of the public, and carrying a concealed gun.
Authorities confirmed that the suspects knew each other, indicating the incident was not random. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Following this event, Berkeley Mall management and local law enforcement collaborated to enhance security measures.
Increased patrols, improved surveillance systems, and community engagement initiatives were implemented to ensure the safety of shoppers and staff.
These efforts aimed to restore public confidence and maintain the mall’s role as a central shopping destination in Goldsboro.
GameStop has been in Berkeley mall longer than Jo-Ann fabrics. I was stationed there from 2005-2009 and I would shops there.
Thanks for sharing your memories! GameStop has indeed been in Berkeley Mall for a long time.
The Berkely Mall needs more than just one new store. How about a food court? I would rather travel to Raleigh or Myrtle Beach to shop than waste my time there.
Thanks for your insight! More store variety and a food court could make the mall more appealing.