Northgate Mall to Transform with BJ’s Wholesale Club

News Summary

Chattanooga’s Northgate Mall is undergoing a significant transformation as demolition work begins for the new BJ’s Wholesale Club. The former site of the Sears store, which has been empty since 2019, will be replaced by a 99,000-square-foot BJ’s that is expected to revitalize the area. Local businesses are hopeful that the new store will attract more shoppers and compete with Sam’s Club and Costco across the river. Scheduled to open around March 2025, BJ’s will bring fresh energy and options to the shopping destination.

Northgate Mall Welcomes New Beginnings with BJ’s Wholesale Club

Chattanooga is buzzing with exciting news as demolition work has finally kicked off to make way for a shiny new BJ’s Wholesale Club at the Northgate Mall site! This means that the space previously occupied by the old Sears store, which has been sitting empty since 2019, will undergo a major transformation.

Goodbye Sears, Hello BJ’s!

The former Sears, a massive 158,000-square-foot store that was a beloved fixture at Northgate Mall since 1972, will be replaced by something new. The demolition began earlier this week, and local businesses are buzzing with enthusiasm over the prospect of BJ’s taking root in the shopping center. One local shop owner, who has a gift store at the Hixson mall, shared hopes that BJ’s will serve as an anchor for the area, potentially drawing in more shoppers.

What to Expect from BJ’s

While specifics on the construction timeline are still up in the air, it’s worth noting that BJ’s is expected to occupy a sizable 99,000-square-foot space with plenty of amenities that may include a fuel station, tire sales, and even a propane filling station! Can you imagine the convenience? Local experts believe that BJ’s will breathe new life into Northgate Mall, which has struggled in recent years after losing other key retailers like J.C. Penney and Burlington.

Can Northgate Compete?

According to a developer who recently facilitated the land sale, Northgate Mall’s location offers a strategic advantage as it positions itself to compete directly with popular giants like Sam’s Club and Costco, situated on the other side of the Tennessee River. This developer estimates that BJ’s could officially take over the premises around March 2025, which is just a little over a year away!

Revitalizing the Mall

Despite the transformation, Northgate Mall hasn’t been completely dormant. The area has previously lost several anchors, but new attractions and eateries have started to pop up nearby. Local hotspots like Miller’s Ale House, McAlister’s Deli, and Buff City Soap are breathing fresh energy into the community. These businesses are helping to attract foot traffic, which could be beneficial when BJ’s finally opens its doors.

A Broader Customer Base

The impact of the BJ’s store won’t just be felt in the immediate vicinity, as it is expected to draw customers from across the region. Shopping enthusiasts from places like Soddy-Daisy to downtown Chattanooga will likely stop by to take advantage of what BJ’s has to offer. This could mean a significant boost to local businesses as well.

The Future Looks Bright!

All things considered, it seems like Northgate Mall is gearing up for a brighter future. With BJ’s Wholesale Club on the horizon, the community can look forward to a revitalized shopping experience complete with more options and amenities. It’s definitely an exciting time for Chattanooga locals, as they wait to see how this beloved shopping location evolves with the changing retail landscape.

As the demolition continues and preparations are made for BJ’s, fingers are crossed for smooth sailing ahead. Chattanooga is ready to welcome new energy to Northgate Mall!