Gen Z is revitalizing shopping centers, with nearly two-thirds of shoppers aged 18 to 34 regularly visiting malls, primarily for instant gratification, unique experiences and social interaction, writes Kristen Jackman of Westfield Rise US. Westfield has adapted by offering immersive brand experiences and social spaces, transforming malls into modern town squares. Jackman notes that as Gen Z continues to blend digital and physical experiences, the future of malls will likely feature more hybrid spaces and digital integration.

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Simon Property Group has exhibited robust financial and operational performance postpandemic, with significant growth in net income and occupancy rates. The company's market capitalization has tripled since the pandemic, and it continues to invest in mixed-use redevelopments, upgrades to Class B properties and strategic retail brand acquisitions.

Continental Realty has acquired Commons at Willowbrook, a 442,000-square-foot retail center in Houston, from L&B Realty Advisors. The center, anchored by stores such as Academy Sports + Outdoors, HomeGoods and Marshalls, was 25% vacant at the time of sale. The deal reflects a broader trend of increased retail investment in Houston, with $329 million in sales recorded in the first 10 months of the year.

Netflix has launched its first permanent retail and entertainment unit at Simon's King of Prussia mall in Pennsylvania. The new venue -- in space previously occupied by Lord & Taylor -- includes a movie theater, a shop with Netflix merchandise, a mini-golf course and other features. Separately, Macerich recently detailed how Dick's House of Sport opened at the former site of another Lord & Taylor at Freehold Raceway Mall in New Jersey.

The reopening of the federal government has provided relief to the US retail sector, ending a period of uncertainty that disrupted operations and sales. Retailers can now rely on the return of federal workers, reinstatement of government services and renewed support programs, all of which are expected to stabilize the market during the crucial holiday season. While this marks a positive shift, long-term challenges such as inflation and cautious consumer sentiment remain on the horizon. "Getting furloughed federal employees back to work and reinstating government services to millions of families across the country are crucial steps to restoring consumer confidence and spurring economic growth," said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay.

President Donald Trump has eliminated tariffs on beef, coffee, certain fruits and fertilizers -- a move that has been praised by the National Restaurant Association for helping to strengthen the food supply chain and reduce cost pressures. "This action delivers needed relief for restaurants and their customers at a time when food costs have risen nearly 40% over the past four years," said National Restaurant Association President and CEO Michelle Korsmo.

Walmart CEO Doug McMillon will step down next year after more than a decade in the role, and he'll be succeeded by Walmart US CEO John Furner after the fiscal year ends Feb. 1, 2026. McMillon was named CEO in 2014, and during his tenure, he led Walmart through a major transformation, expanding its ecommerce presence and leveraging supply chain strengths to boost competitiveness. He steered the retailer through challenges such as tariffs and shifting consumer trends, while also making bold decisions on social issues and acquisitions. Under his leadership, Walmart's stock surged 300%, and the company attracted higher-income customers while expanding its digital business.

Shoe Carnival is undergoing a corporate rebranding, changing its name to Shoe Station Group, as part of a strategy to unify its retail brands under the Shoe Station banner. The company's leadership highlighted that the rebranding reflects confidence in the Shoe Station brand and positions the company for long-term growth. The decision was unanimously approved by the board of directors and awaits shareholder approval at the annual meeting in June 2026.