History
The mall opened in 1996 and was one of many that opened along the Interstate 495 corridor from the mid-1980s to the mid-1990s. [2] Initially the mall's location seemed remote as it was located far from other retail. However, the mall was able to strategically target both the affluent and booming western crescent of suburbs of Boston, while simultaneously serving as the largest mall for the Worcester area. [3]
On April 25, 1997, Hoyts Cinemas officially opened their location at the Solomon Pond Mall. Hoyts was what originally occupied the space. The multiplex cinema features 15 screens and 330 seats. In 2003, Regal Cinemas acquired the former Hoyts Berlin 15, which became Regal Solomon Pond Mall 15. [4] [5]
In comparison to other mid-range malls along the Interstate 495 corridor, the Solomon Pond Mall attempted to shoot for the upscale by courting some higher end tenants such as Victoria's Secret, Swarovski Crystal and several jeweler chains. The mall also includes an Apple Store.
In March 2006, Filene’s closed, after a decade, and became a Macy’s following its closure. [6]
In 2018, it was announced that Old Navy would relocate out of the building once shared with Sports Authority which closed in 2016, and relocated in the location of the former Abercrombie & Fitch. Also that year, Toy Vault opened, and Forever 21 went under a renovation and expansion. [7]
On February 15, 2021, it was announced that Sears would be closing as part of a plan to close 34 stores nationwide. The store closed on May 2, 2021. [8]
In 2022, the Somerville-based chain, Bertucci's would close their restaurant located on the first floor. [9]
On August 31, 2023, the mall opened seven new businesses, potentially giving the mall a boost in attendances and filling in vacancies. [10]
On January 2, 2024, The Dallas-based chain, TGI Fridays, closed its restaurant located on the second floor of mall. [11]
As of 2024, the mall is currently managed by Spinoso Real Estate Group. Former owners include Pacific Retail Capital Partners and Simon Property Group. [12]
Forever 21 will close their location in the mall on May 1, 2025. [13]
On May 6, 2025 it was officially announced that seven new stores will open in the mall from about June 2025 to September 2025. The following includes: a reopened Auntie Anne’s, Nova Gelato & Bakery, InStyle Mattresses, Blush & Ivy, Slime Zone, InStyle Kids and the NJ Salon. [14]
