Talk about a flea market flip. Springfield’s Eastfield Mall is transforming their closed Macy’s department store into an upscale weekend market. The Markets at Eastfield will officially open April 7th.
45,000 square feet of the retired Macy’s store will fill with antique, vintage, and new products. Market producer Bill Bullock envisions furniture, appliances, memorabilia, and other goods. All products sold at the Markets at Eastfield will need to meet mall standards, and the overall presentation of the market must fit in with the look and feel of the mall.
Originally built in 1967, the Eastfield Mall was the region’s first enclosed mall. Recently, the mall has lost Macy’s JC Penney, American Eagle, and several other staple mall retailers.
The long-term plan for the mall is to turn it into a mixed-use property with retail, residential, and entertainment components. Creating the Markets at Eastfield is the first major step in driving new traffic to the mall as shoppers’ demand for pop-up and local shops increases.
The Markets at Eastfield will host around 75—100 vendors. Start-up businesses and mom and pop sellers are highly encouraged to apply. Booth rentals start at $200 per month for a 12-by-12 space. The markets will be open Saturdays and Sundays.