One of the Lehigh Valley\u2019s iconic shopping centers was recently sold for $18 million.<\/p>\n
The former Whitehall Mall was purchased by Mishorim Gold Group in May, according to Lehigh County property records. It was the Valley\u2019s first enclosed mall, opening in 1966 at the corner of MacArthur Boulevard and Grape Street near Route 22, in Whitehall Township.<\/p>\n
Miami-based Mishorim Gold has changed the name of the 365,071-square-foot property to Whitehall Plaza and it plans extensive renovations.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur mission is to reimagine retail spaces, turning stagnant plazas into thriving community hubs,\u201d Mishorim Gold President Mark Gold said. \u201cWhitehall Plaza represents a tremendous opportunity to create a space where businesses can thrive, and families can enjoy a unique shopping experience.\u201d<\/p>\n
JLL Capital Markets worked on the behalf of the seller, Washington Prime Group, which took over full ownership in 2014.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhitehall Plaza represented a rare value-add opportunity to acquire a well-positioned retail center in a dynamic retail node within the Lehigh Valley,\u201d JLL Capital Senior Managing Director Jim Galbally said. \u201cThe property\u2019s irreplaceable positioning, strong demographics and recent leasing success made it an attractive opportunity for investors.\u201d<\/p>\n
JLL said Mishorim Gold specializes in acquiring and revitalizing failing shopping centers.<\/p>\n
Whitehall Plaza has seen several stores come and go in recent years. Perhaps its biggest loss was a two-story Sears anchor that left in 2020<\/a>.<\/p>\n Tenants include Kohl\u2019s and Floor & Decor. A Wawa opened on the perimeter this year.<\/p>\n