Countless experts have predicted the demise of shopping malls in recent years. Many formerly profitable shopping malls have closed due to diminishing sales figures, and shoppers everywhere are purchasing everything from food to automobiles online. That’s why community leaders raised their eyebrows when two new Richmond, Va shopping malls opened their doors in September 2003. Well, Stony Point Fashion Park and Short Pump Town Center recently celebrated another year of serving consumers in the greater Richmond area.
Twin Malls
Even though hurricane Isabel was doing its best to batter local Atlantic seacoast economies in September of 2003, the twin malls became the first Richmond metro area shopping malls to open for business since the 1991 grand opening of Virginia Center Commons.
In spite of the many doubters, Taubman Centers CEO Albert S. Taubman, developer of both the Short Pump Town Center and Stony Point Fashion Park malls, predicted that the Richmond area could support two new shopping malls. A 2003 edition of the Richmond Times Dispatch indicates that Taubman was convinced that both Stony Point and Short Pump would ultimately thrive. A full 13 years later, shoppers are still flocking to the now familiar shopping malls. Taubman sold most of his interest in the Stony Point and Short Pump shopping malls in 2014.
Sales Figures Tell the Story
When it comes to business, the numbers usually tell the story. Official 2013 sales figures reveal that the Short Pump Town Center shopping mall, which is twice the size of Stony Point Fashion Park, enjoyed sales of $327 million in 2013. The Short Pump Town Center mall features more than 140 retailers and restaurants, many of which are first generation businesses. Even though it ‘s much smaller than Short Pump, Stony Point Fashion Park continues to entice shoppers with 662,000 square- feet of shopping and dining pleasure.
Stony Point Fashion Park
Short Pump Southern Charm
Short Pump Town Center shopping mall General Manager Kem Blue stated that Richmond’s Short Pump area will continue to grow. The Short Pump area offers shoppers and tourists something unique and beautiful. The Richmond, Va area has long been recognized as a scenic and historical treasure trove. The Richmond area is also a leading venue for outdoor sports, luscious wineries and family friendly activities.
To be sure, the Short Pump area of Richmond offers shoppers a special blend of southern charm and specialty shopping. The relaxing ambiance features alfresco dining venues, inspiring landscaping, distinctive fireplaces and peaceful water attractions. Shoppers can expect Richmond’s twin malls, both of which were born in September 2003, to thrive for many years to come.
