Several well-known retail chains are closing their stores at the Towson Town Center in Towson, Maryland, marking a significant shift in the mall’s tenant mix. Banana Republic, Tommy Bahama, Madewell, and Wockenfuss Candies have either closed or are set to close their locations, reflecting ongoing challenges for mid-tier malls across the United States.
This trend follows a broader pattern of store closures among major retailers. Many chains, such as Forever 21 and JCPenney, have faced bankruptcy or downsizing in recent years, significantly altering the retail landscape within shopping malls. According to the Wall Street Journal, landlords are now prioritizing stronger, more profitable tenants capable of paying higher rents and appealing to current consumer demographics.
Impact of Retail Exits on Towson Town Center
The closures at Towson Town Center highlight a troubling trend for mid-tier malls. Tommy Bahama has already exited the mall, while Banana Republic and Madewell are expected to follow suit within weeks. Wockenfuss Candies, a local favorite and the oldest candy maker in Baltimore, also confirmed its closure, stating, “We have enjoyed our years at Towson Town Center… we have made the difficult decision to permanently close this location.”
Macy’s is also reportedly slated to close in 2026, according to a Patch report from December 2025. Local Chamber of Commerce representative Nancy Hafford noted, “People don’t have as much expendable funds as they used to… the cost of goods being so high… has really hurt a lot of the retail businesses.”
The mall’s challenges are compounded by a local increase in safety concerns. Recent incidents of violence have raised alarms among shoppers, contributing to an atmosphere that some find uncomfortable. One shopper, Sabrina Pitchford-Gorman, remarked, “I’ve seen them [teens] grab people’s bags or snatch phones… it makes it uncomfortable to shop.”
Changing Dynamics in Retail Spaces
Experts highlight that mall closures can trigger a “domino effect” for surrounding businesses, undermining foot traffic and overall viability. A study by the IMD noted that large store closures can directly influence the sales of nearby establishments.
While the foot traffic at indoor malls showed an increase in October 2025, data from Placer.ai indicate that this metric does not necessarily reflect purchasing trends. Furthermore, mall values remain considerably lower than their peak in 2016.
The decline of mid-tier malls contrasts sharply with the success of top-tier malls, which continue to attract affluent demographics and luxury brands. According to Coresight Research, malls are categorized into tiers based on location and consumer income, with top-tier malls thriving while mid-tier and low-tier malls struggle.
The exit of these key brands from Towson Town Center does not signal an inevitable demise but rather underscores the need for landlords to rethink their strategies. As the Wall Street Journal noted, landlords are looking for experiential tenants that can offer unique shopping experiences, thereby attracting consumers in a changing market.
As Towson Town Center faces competition from new developments like the $350 million Towson Row, the challenge remains for the mall to adapt and revitalize. With local economic development efforts underway, there is hope that the area can attract new businesses that resonate with today’s consumers.
