Origins and Construction
WestGate Mall opened on October 28, 1975. Arlen Realty and Development Corporation developed it, and at that time, it became the largest mall in South Carolina. The original anchor stores were Belk-Hudson, Sears, and Meyers-Arnold.
The mall is located in Spartanburg, South Carolina, near Interstate 26 and US Highway 29. This strategic location helped it become a central shopping destination in the area.
The mall’s construction marked a major development in the region’s commercial real estate, attracting various retailers and shoppers from surrounding areas. Visiting WestGate Mall was a prominent choice for both shopping and dining when considering things to do in Spartanburg, SC.
Early Expansion
In 1978, JCPenney joined WestGate Mall, adding another anchor store, which helped boost the mall’s popularity. In the late 1970s, JMB Realty purchased the mall. This change in ownership led to more investments and improvements.
In 1988, Bramalea Centers acquired the mall. Uptons replaced Meyers-Arnold in 1987, bringing a fresh look to the retail mix.
During these years, the mall’s management focused on attracting more shoppers. They organized various sales events and promotions.
These activities created a buzz, drawing people from Spartanburg and nearby areas. JMB Realty and Bramalea Centers’ strategic decisions played a key role in the mall’s early success.
1990s Renovations
In 1992, Bramalea filed for bankruptcy. CBL & Associates Properties bought the mall and started major renovations. They expanded the mall, adding a new wing.
This new section featured Dillard’s, J.B. White, a food court, and a Regal movie theater. These additions made the mall more attractive to shoppers.
The renovations also included upgrading storefronts and expanding the Belk store by 30,000 square feet. This expansion made WestGate Mall the first in the Carolinas to have six anchor stores. In 1998, J.B. White became Proffitt’s, continuing the trend of updating the mall’s retail offerings.
Anchor Store Changes
Proffitt’s took over the J.B. White store in 1998, keeping the mall’s retail offerings fresh. Uptons, which had replaced Meyers-Arnold, closed in 1999, leaving a vacancy that needed filling.
Bed Bath & Beyond opened in half of the former Uptons space in December 2000. Dick’s Sporting Goods took the other half in mid-2001. These new stores brought variety and attracted more shoppers.
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The early 2000s brought more changes. Belk purchased Proffitt’s in 2005. Initially, it wasn’t clear what would happen to the Proffitt’s store since Belk already had a presence in the mall. Eventually, the Proffitt’s store closed and made way for Costco, which opened in 2007.
Recent Closures and Changes
Sears, one of the original anchor stores, closed on September 2, 2018. This closure was part of a larger plan to close 72 stores nationwide.
Dick’s Sporting Goods became a clearance center in 2019 and eventually closed in 2021. Bed Bath & Beyond announced its closure in January 2023. Each of these closures reflected broader trends in the retail industry.
In October 2023, the owners put WestGate Mall up for sale, nearly three years after CBL Properties filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The mall now faces an uncertain future, but its history shows a pattern of adaptation and change.
Economic Impact and Community Involvement
The mall’s expansions and renovations impacted Spartanburg’s economy. Retailers brought jobs and boosted local commerce.
When Costco opened in 2007, it became a major draw. This store got a wholesale shopping experience that was new to the area.
Local businesses also benefited from increased foot traffic. The food court and movie theater offered more than just shopping, turning the mall into a social hub.
In the early 2000s, WestGate Mall hosted community events, including seasonal celebrations, charity drives, and local performances.
The mall became a place where people gathered for various activities, not just shopping. This community involvement strengthened its role in Spartanburg.
Recent Developments at WestGate Mall (2023-2024)
In May 2024, a New York-based firm purchased WestGate Mall for $15 million. The sale came after the mall was listed in October 2023, following the previous owner’s financial struggles, including a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing.
The new owners, Namdar Realty Group and Mason Asset Management, probably will redevelop the mall, aiming to bring in new stores and enhance the shopping experience.
In response to recent break-ins and vandalism, Spartanburg Police have increased their presence at WestGate Mall.
On July 25, 2024, local news reported several incidents of property damage and theft, prompting the mall management to collaborate with law enforcement to improve security. These measures include more frequent patrols and upgraded surveillance systems to ensure shopper safety.
Throughout 2023 and 2024, WestGate Mall faced various security challenges, including a high-profile jewelry theft in March 2023, where suspects stole $1 million worth of jewelry.
Additionally, fireworks set off inside the mall in early 2024 caused concern among visitors and store owners, highlighting the need for better security protocols.
Despite the challenges, the new ownership has expressed confidence in turning around WestGate Mall’s fortunes. Their plans include attracting more diverse retail options and possibly redeveloping certain sections to serve the community’s needs better.
With ongoing efforts to improve security and revitalize the retail mix, the mall aims to reclaim its position as a key shopping destination in Spartanburg, SC.