Flagstaff Mall has been part of Northern Arizonans’ lives for more than 45 years.
Flagstaff Mall has long served the region as an indoor shopping center where locals, residents of distant rural towns and visitors come together to find lifestyle essentials, connect with community and experience the joy of every season.
The Founding Story
Flagstaff Mall opened in 1979 with well-established American anchor stores Sears and JCPenney, with Dillard’s opening soon afterward.
It was originally owned by Westcor, a Phoenix-based shopping center developer that was acquired by Macerich in 2002. General Manager Bonnie Bouschet says the mission was then, as it is today, “to provide Northern Arizona with an inviting, all-season retail hub where shoppers could find their favorite contemporary brands under one roof.”
The mall is now owned and operated by Cypress Equities.
Top Achievements
“We’re very proud of our sustained success in providing a mix of local and national shops,” said Bouschet. “Our retail spaces are nearly all full, which means shoppers have a large selection of brands and stores to visit and our foot traffic is steady and strong.”
Mall leadership also is deeply committed to giving back to the community. “We’re one of the only retail locations across Arizona that hosts visits with the Easter Bunny and Santa at no cost to families. We also host craft shows that support local causes and a Character Kindness Club for children the second Saturday of every month.”
Core Values
“Through the leadership of our founder, Chris Maguire, consummate disruptor and steward of unique real estate solutions, Cypress Equities continues to curate the ultimate retail experience,” said Bouschet. “We remain fiercely entrepreneurial. We adapt. We respond to the complexities and challenges of the tenant, investor and client. It is our business to bring purpose and passion to every project. Cypress Equities takes the conventional, adds inspiration and brings communities together ultimately creating investment value.”
Shifts Impacting the Business
The global pandemic created the rise of online shopping. “Getting people back to shopping in person was challenging,” said Bouschet, but the Flagstaff Mall increased its focus on events and experiences and highlighted the value of shopping locally.
Greatest Challenges
“Retaining retailers despite shoppers’ evolving preferences is always a challenge,” she said.
Looking Ahead
Bouschet expects Flagstaff Mall to continue to evolve as a lifestyle destination, with retail as one piece of a larger experience.
The Reason for Long-Term Success
“Part of our success has been being actively involved in our community and embracing retailers who share that mindset, like Box Lunch, opening in May. For every $10 spent, the national retailer donates a meal through Feeding America.” FBN
Flagstaff Mall
4650 E. U.S. Highway 89
Flagstaff, AZ 86004
928-526-9373
