GRANDVILLE, Mich. — In a move that signals a seismic shift in the West Michigan retail environment, Macy’s has officially confirmed the impending closure of its anchor location at Rivertown Crossings Mall. This strategic exit, part of the company’s aggressive “Bold New Chapter” turnaround plan, marks the end of an era for Grandville shoppers and creates a high-stakes vacancy in one of the region’s most prominent shopping hubs.
As Macy’s Inc. (NYSE: M) streamlines its brick-and-mortar footprint, investors and consumers alike are asking: what does this mean for the future of commercial real estate in Michigan? With a focus on high-value retail assets, luxury expansion, and digital transformation, Macy’s is betting that less is more.
The “Bold New Chapter”: Why Rivertown Crossings?
The decision to shutter the Grandville store was not made in isolation. Macy’s CEO Tony Spring characterized the move as a necessary step to “prioritize investments in our go-forward stores.”
Under the “Bold New Chapter” strategy, the company is closing approximately 150 underproductive stores across the United States by the end of 2026. These closures allow the retailer to:
- Reinvest in “Go-Forward” Locations: Focusing capital on the top 350 Macy’s stores that show high customer engagement.
- Expand Luxury Brands: Doubling down on Bloomingdale’s and Bluemercury, which have consistently outperformed the core Macy’s brand.
- Enhance Digital Experiences: Scaling e-commerce infrastructure and AI-driven customer service to meet the demands of the 2026 consumer.
Impact on Rivertown Crossings Mall
The loss of a major anchor like Macy’s is a significant blow to mall occupancy. Rivertown Crossings has historically served as a central retail corridor for the Grandville and greater Grand Rapids area.
“While closing any store is difficult, our resources are being pivoted to stores where customers are responding positively to elevated service and better product offerings,” said Spring.
Employee Support and Severance: Navigating the Transition
Macy’s has emphasized that its primary concern is the welfare of the Rivertown Crossings colleagues. While an exact closing date has not been set, clearance sales are expected to begin as early as mid-January 2026, typically running for about 10 weeks.
What Employees Can Expect:
- Transfer Opportunities: Eligible employees may be offered roles at the remaining nine Michigan locations, including the Woodland Mall in Kentwood.
- Severance Packages: Those who do not transfer will receive severance and outplacement resources, designed to “soften the blow” of the transition.
- Retirement Planning: Employees with Macy’s 401(k) plans will have options to roll over their balances or maintain their accounts according to vesting schedules.
Commercial Real Estate Trends: The 2026 Outlook
The vacancy at Rivertown Crossings comes at a time when commercial real estate (CRE) is undergoing a massive reclassification. Industry experts suggest that the next phase for malls isn’t about “replacing retail” but about “anchoring an ecosystem.”
| Trend | 2026 Projection | Impact on Michigan CRE |
| Mixed-Use Redevelopment | High | Converting retail shells into medical offices or luxury lofts. |
| Retail Vacancy Rates | ~4.2% | Slow rise in B-class malls as underperforming anchors exit. |
| Medical/Aesthetics Influx | Rising | MediSpas and urgent care taking over junior box spaces. |
Retail Resilience: Michigan’s Remaining Macy’s Footprint
Despite the Grandville closure, Macy’s maintains a robust presence in the Great Lakes State. West Michigan shoppers will now rely primarily on the Woodland Mall location. Other Michigan sites remaining in the “go-forward” list include:
- Ann Arbor (Briarwood)
- Novi (Twelve Oaks)
- Troy (Somerset Collection)
- Portage (Crossroads)
Macy’s is currently investing in “Reimagine 125” stores—locations that are receiving physical upgrades, improved lighting, and a curated selection of brands like Coach, Levi’s, and Ralph Lauren.
Essential Business Insurance Tips for Mall Tenants
When an anchor store closes, the “halo effect” of foot traffic disappears. Small business owners within the mall should review their insurance policies immediately.
1. Check for “Co-Tenancy” Clauses
Many mall leases include a co-tenancy clause. If a major anchor (like Macy’s) leaves, smaller tenants may be entitled to reduced rent or the right to terminate their lease early. Consult with a commercial real estate attorney to verify your rights.
2. Update Your “Business Interruption” Policy
Standard Business Interruption Insurance usually requires physical damage to your property. However, specialized Contingent Business Interruption coverage can protect you if a nearby “attractor” (the anchor) closes, leading to a significant loss of income.
3. Review “D&O Liability” and “E&O” for Property Managers
Mall owners and property managers facing these vacancies must navigate complex legal and financial waters. Ensuring robust Directors and Officers (D&O) Liability insurance is essential to protect against shareholder or partner litigation during restructuring.
The Path Forward for Grandville
While the news of the Macy’s closure is a turning point, it also presents an opportunity for Rivertown Crossings to reinvent itself. From medical facilities to entertainment hubs, the “Big Box” space of 2026 is no longer just for department stores.
As the retail landscape evolves, staying informed on market shifts and insurance protections is the best way to ensure resilience in a “Bold New Chapter.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding the Macy’s Grandville closure and critical insurance strategies for stakeholders in the shifting retail landscape.
Macy’s Grandville Closure: Customer & Employee FAQ
Q: When is the Macy’s Grandville (Rivertown Crossings) store officially closing? A: While Macy’s has not publicly listed a final day of operation, the property owner confirmed the store’s lease expires on March 31, 2026. Clearance sales are scheduled to begin in mid-January 2026 and typically run for approximately 10 weeks.
Q: Can I still use my Macy’s Star Rewards and coupons at this location? A: Coupons and Star Money redemptions at the Grandville location will only be accepted through January 11, 2026. After this date, rewards can still be earned and redeemed at other Michigan locations (like Woodland Mall) or online at macys.com.
Q: What happens to employees at the Rivertown Crossings store? A: Macy’s has stated they are offering transfer opportunities to nearby stores where available. For those not transferring, the company is providing severance packages and outplacement support to assist with the transition.
Q: Are Macy’s gift cards still valid? A: Yes. Gift cards can be used at the Grandville store until its final closing date, and they remain valid indefinitely at all other Macy’s locations and online. However, the store will stop selling new gift cards after January 11, 2026.
Insurance & Legal FAQs for Mall Tenants
As an anchor store like Macy’s exits, neighboring businesses often face a “ripple effect” of reduced foot traffic. Here is how to protect your business.
Q: What is a “Co-Tenancy Clause” and do I have one? A: A co-tenancy clause is a common provision in retail leases that protects smaller tenants if a major “anchor” (like Macy’s) closes. If triggered, it may allow you to:
- Pay Reduced Rent: Often a percentage of sales instead of a fixed base rent.
- Terminate Your Lease: If the anchor is not replaced within a specific timeframe (usually 6–12 months). Check your lease agreement immediately or consult a commercial real estate attorney to see if your “ongoing co-tenancy” requirements are still met.
Q: Does my Business Interruption Insurance cover losses from a nearby store closing? A: Standard Business Interruption insurance usually requires physical damage to your own property. To be covered for a “foot traffic” loss caused by an anchor’s exit, you need Contingent Business Interruption (CBI) insurance. CBI protects your income when a “leader” or “attractor” business that brings customers to you ceases operations.
Q: How do I document an insurance claim related to the mall’s decline? A: Most insurers (and landlords) will require Proof of Sales Decline. Start keeping a detailed “Claim Diary” now, comparing your 2026 weekly sales to the same period in 2025. This data is essential for proving the financial impact of the Macy’s vacancy.