News Summary
Mall St. Vincent in Shreveport has new ownership with Summit Properties USA, aiming to revitalize the struggling mall with new tenants, community events, and enhanced facilities. With plans to convert vacant spaces into a medical facility and an animation studio, the management expresses hope for increased foot traffic and a better shopping experience. Local artists are also invited to contribute to the mall’s atmosphere through murals. While challenges remain, the community hinges on the expertise of Summit Properties to turn the mall’s fortunes around.
Shreveport Welcomes New Ownership and Revitalization Plans at Mall St. Vincent
Mall St. Vincent in Shreveport is set to undergo significant changes with new ownership by Summit Properties USA, as announced on August 1. The mall’s management has expressed enthusiasm about revitalization efforts that include bringing in new tenants and hosting community events aimed at boosting foot traffic and creating a more inviting shopping experience.
The decision comes at a crucial time as Mall St. Vincent has seen a notable decline in occupancy rates in recent years. The mall currently features only one major anchor store, Dillard’s, following the closure of Sears in 2018. This has raised concerns about its viability as a commercial hub in the region.
Strategic Location and Community Impact
Strategically located with direct frontage on Interstate 49, Mall St. Vincent serves a large demographic, with over 184,000 residents in Shreveport and more than 300,000 in surrounding areas. General Manager Jay Fontenot is optimistic about the future, noting plans to enhance the mall’s appeal through a diverse mix of retail, dining, and entertainment options that cater to local needs.
The mall’s new ownership has already been reflected on the Summit Properties USA website, which includes Mall St. Vincent among its portfolio of acquired properties. Business owners in the area, including those operating within the mall, have shared hopes for increased foot traffic and new dining establishments as a result of the transition.
Developments and Future Plans
Several developments have already been confirmed as part of the revitalization efforts. LSU Health Shreveport is set to convert the previously vacant Sears space into a medical research facility by 2024, which is expected to draw additional visitors to the area. In addition, Troubled Muse, an animation studio, is planned to move into the mall in March 2024, adding to the creative and entrepreneurial energy within the space.
Mall St. Vincent is also seeking local artists to create murals that will adorn a hallway inside the mall, further enhancing its atmosphere and community engagement. Current tenants, such as kiosk manager Ray Mohammed and shop owner Ron Hajjem, have voiced hopes for revitalization that could lead to the introduction of new stores and an improved shopping experience.
Challenges and Community Sentiment
Despite the exciting news, the mall faces significant challenges. There has been a documented decline in occupancy, with 42 storefronts currently available, comprising both national retailers and local services. Conversations among local business owners indicate mixed sentiments regarding the mall’s future and its potential recovery. However, there remains a prevailing hope that Summit Properties’ expertise in revitalizing distressed properties can lead to positive changes.
Summit Properties USA has a history of successfully acquiring underperforming real estate and turning them around by implementing community-focused events, enhancing tenant mixes, and creating attractive shopping experiences. The emphasis is not just on filling vacant spaces, but on creating an environment where visitors are encouraged to spend more time shopping, dining, and engaging in interactive experiences.
As the revitalization plans take shape, many community members and local business owners are optimistic that Mall St. Vincent can reclaim its status as a bustling commercial center that meets the needs of Shreveport residents. However, until official documentation of the ownership transfer is filed with the clerk or assessor’s office, details regarding future developments remain closely monitored.
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Additional Resources
- KSLA News: Mall St. Vincent Appears to Have New Owner
- KTBS: New Owner Brings Hope for Revival at Mall St. Vincent
- KTAL News: Shreveport Mall Revitalization Plans
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate: Shreveport’s Mall St. Vincent Has New Owner
- MSN: Mall St. Vincent Appears to Have a New Owner
- Wikipedia: Mall
- Google Search: Mall St. Vincent
- Google Scholar: Mall revitalization
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shopping Malls
- Google News: Mall St. Vincent
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
