In the heart of a major urban transformation, Southland Mall is set to undergo a remarkable revival with a $1 billion redevelopment plan, and at its core is the introduction of Presidente Supermarket. This major retail player is poised to anchor the transformative project, bringing a fresh wave of excitement and economic vibrancy to the community.
The Revitalization Blueprint
Southland Mall, once a bustling hub that lost some of its luster over the years, is now at the forefront of a comprehensive revitalization effort. The ambitious $1 billion redevelopment project aims not only to rejuvenate the physical space but also to redefine the shopping and community experience. Presidente Supermarket, a key player in this revitalization, is set to play a pivotal role in reshaping the mall's identity and impact on the surrounding area.
Southland Mall History
The Southplace City Center redevelopment, with a budget of $1 billion, is set to eventually supersede Southland Mall.
Southland Mall, with its roots tracing back to 1960 in South Miami-Dade—45 years prior to the incorporation of Cutler Ridge as Cutler Bay—initially operated as the Cutler Ridge Shopping Center. Its inaugural anchor was a Food Fair supermarket. In the late 1970s, Food Fair transitioned into Pantry Pride, headquartered in Fort Lauderdale. Unfortunately, by the year 2000, Pantry Pride had ceased operations.
The shopping center underwent expansion in 1978, adopting the name Cutler Ridge Mall. It featured department store anchors such as Jordan Marsh, JC Penneys, Luria’s, Lord & Taylor, Sears, and a movie theater. Situated near the intersection of Florida’s Turnpike and U.S. 1, the mall enjoyed strategic positioning.
However, Hurricane Andrew wreaked havoc in August 1992, decimating almost the entirety of Cutler Ridge Mall, with the exception of Sears. Subsequently, the mall underwent reconstruction and reemerged as Southland Mall. Presently, it houses various stores and restaurants, including Aeropostale, Applebee’s, Champs, and Claire’s. Despite its 808,766 square-foot size, the mall faces challenges in competing with more extravagant and contemporary shopping plazas like Dadeland, Aventura, Brickell City Center, and Sawgrass Mills in Miami-Dade and Broward counties.
Presidente Supermarket: A Retail Powerhouse
Presidente Supermarket, known for its commitment to quality, diversity, and community engagement, is a retail powerhouse with a strong presence in the grocery industry. With a history of providing diverse and fresh products, coupled with a focus on customer satisfaction, Presidente Supermarket has earned its reputation as a trusted brand. The decision to anchor the $1 billion Southland Mall redevelopment underscores the significance of Presidente Supermarket in contributing to the success of this ambitious project.
Community Impact
Beyond the retail aspect, the introduction of Presidente Supermarket is expected to have a profound impact on the local community. The supermarket chain has a track record of actively engaging with the communities it serves. This involvement ranges from supporting local businesses to creating job opportunities for residents. As Presidente Supermarket establishes its presence in Southland Mall, it is likely to become a catalyst for positive change, fostering economic growth and community development.
Job Creation and Economic Growth
One of the immediate benefits of Presidente Supermarket's involvement in the Southland Mall redevelopment is the creation of job opportunities. The supermarket chain is expected to hire a significant number of local residents, providing employment opportunities across various skill levels. This injection of jobs not only enhances the economic well-being of individuals and families but also contributes to the overall growth of the local economy.
Diverse Product Offering
Presidente Supermarket is renowned for its diverse product offerings, catering to a wide range of culinary preferences and cultural backgrounds. As the anchor store in the revamped Southland Mall, the supermarket is set to become a culinary destination for shoppers seeking a diverse and high-quality selection of products. From fresh produce to international delicacies, Presidente Supermarket aims to elevate the shopping experience, meeting the varied needs of the community it serves.
Enhanced Shopping Experience
Beyond the sheer scale of its product offerings, Presidente Supermarket is committed to providing an enhanced shopping experience. The supermarket chain is known for its modern store layouts, emphasis on cleanliness, and customer-friendly services. As the anchor tenant in the redeveloped Southland Mall, Presidente Supermarket is likely to set new standards for convenience, quality, and customer satisfaction, creating a shopping environment that resonates with the evolving needs of today's consumers.
Cultural Connection
Presidente Supermarket's commitment to diversity extends beyond its product offerings to embrace cultural connections within the communities it serves. The supermarket chain actively seeks to celebrate and promote cultural diversity through special events, collaborations, and partnerships. As it becomes an integral part of the Southland Mall revitalization, Presidente Supermarket is expected to foster a sense of cultural inclusivity, turning the mall into a community space where residents from diverse backgrounds can come together.
Where the Presidente is Going?
According to Urban Retail Properties, the upcoming Presidente grocery store at the emerging Southplace City Center will encompass approximately 25,000 square feet, serving as the focal point within an eight-story apartment building featuring 350 residences.
Founded by the Cuban American Rodriguez in 1990, Presidente has evolved into one of the nation's largest Hispanic-owned supermarket chains, boasting over 40 locations spanning from Miami to Orlando.
Paul Motta, the COO of Urban Retail Properties, stated, "Retailers are seeking 'live-work-shop-play' environments, precisely what Southplace City Center aims to offer. The inclusion of Presidente as a prominent anchor tenant aligns seamlessly with the project's vision and strategically complements the existing retail landscape."
Conclusion
The introduction of Presidente Supermarket as the anchor tenant in the $1 billion Southland Mall revitalization marks a significant milestone in the transformation of this urban space. Beyond its role as a retail powerhouse, Presidente Supermarket is set to become a catalyst for positive change, creating jobs, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the overall community experience. As the revitalization project unfolds, Southland Mall is poised to regain its status as a vibrant and thriving hub, with Presidente Supermarket leading the way toward a brighter future.
