GNC to Depart San Francisco Centre, Marking Another Blow to the Mall
GNC has announced it will close its store at San Francisco Centre on December 29, with a sign at the entrance confirming the final date. Even now, several shelves appear partially stocked, signaling a winding-down process.
Customers are being directed to an alternate location at 722 Market St., as the mall continues to shed tenants amid upheaval. In rapid succession, other big names such as Aritzia, H&M, and Shake Shack are also preparing to depart in the coming weeks, following the new ownership’s decision to terminate existing leases and vacate the premises.
Although a full mall shutdown hasn’t been officially confirmed, industry observers have noted that closing the center could significantly reduce operating costs—primarily utilities and security. The property has dramatically shrunk, with fewer than 20 tenants remaining, representing under 10% of the roughly 200 businesses that operated there prior to the pandemic.
Background context shows former owners Westfield and Brookfield relinquished control in 2023 after a steep drop in foot traffic during the pandemic. The exit of anchor stores Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s further accelerated the decline.
Meanwhile, neighboring Union Square is experiencing a contrasting rebound, with new establishments such as Bang & Olufsen, Dandelion Chocolate, and Bourbon Steak signaling renewed vitality for the district.
Thought-provoking question: As major malls grapple with vacancies and shifting retail strategies, should developers prioritize reimagining empty space for experiential concepts or pursue different uses altogether? Share your take in the comments.
