Publix is poised to anchor a new development in Pompano Beach, a move that sparked a lot debate among locals on the possible effects on surrounding businesses and the city overall. Though close to two other Publix stores at Lighthouse Point’s Venetian Isles and Beacon Light, the business is building a new 51,000 square foot store at Shoppers Haven, a vintage strip mall first built in 1964.
Situated almost exactly opposite from the Venetian Isles store and two miles north of the Beacon Light location, this new store will replace a Winn Dixie that closed its doors in 2019. Although Publix has not officially disclosed the future of the current stores, neighborhood informants anticipate both will remain open, following a trend observed in other Florida cities where Publix runs several locations near each other.
To suit this new expansion, the Shoppers Haven strip mall is now receiving major improvements including landscaping and parking facility changes. Starting in May and scheduled to last 15 months, the building of the new Publix indicates a long-term dedication to revitalizing the neighborhood.
Retail life goes on amid the building madness. Major retailers such as Michael’s, Beall’s, Party City, and Xfinity are operational, alongside outparcel merchants like Walgreens, Outback Steakhouse, and Dunkin’. With an 86 percent occupancy rate, this activity keeps the shopping complex vibrant. Bed, Bath & Beyond’s leaving in 2023 created additional chances for new renters.
Shoppers Haven’s March sale to Fort Lauderdale-based developer Stiles Corp. signaled a dramatic change in ownership. Purchased for $30 million from Partridge Equity Group located in Pompano Beach, a notable $20 million drop from its 2016 price, this purchase highlights the evolving dynamics in local retail investments. Major Southeastern commercial real estate company Stiles Corp., coupled with Charlotte-based FCA Partners, sees this project as a strategic step to increase its visibility in prime retail areas.
Considered a small site plan by local authorities, the center’s rehabilitation passed the city’s approval procedure with little disturbance, therefore demonstrating the confidence of the community in the intended developments. Shoppers Haven, with 204,000 square feet of retail space at a major junction of US 1 and Sample Road, is likely to become a focal point in the commercial scene in Pompano Beach.
Ben Boies, the Stiles director of acquisitions, said Shoppers Haven is the first project in the company’s plan to acquire retail centers in prime locations.
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The community waits eagerly as Publix gets ready to launch Shoppers Haven, hoping for the advantages of fresh job possibilities and improved shopping experiences. With the current shops just a stone’s throw away, only time will tell how this expansion will impact the local retail environment and whether Publix’s risk on high-density store location pays off.
