Checkout

Stores That Defined American Malls Eye a Freestanding Future

  • Mall stalwarts from Macy’s to Kay test more off-mall options
  • Retailers drawn by lower rents, better sales performance

Photographer: Al Bello/Getty Images North

Lock
This article is for subscribers only.

Quintessential mall stores from Macy’s Inc. to Kay Jewelers to Gap Inc. are plotting out a post-Covid future -- and traditional shopping centers won’t play as much of a role in it.

Signet Jewelers Ltd., which owns chains such as Kay and Zales, said this past week it will expand in off-mall locations while continuing to pull back from the old-school gallerias where it has long had a major presence. The company also plans to add more kiosks in underserved markets.