New stores, kiosks, events planned at Capital Mall

Mall gears up for busy season

Toys R Us assistant manager Brenda Sanders straightens shelves in the newly opened store at the Capital Mall in Jefferson City. The store is one of many that will open for the holiday season.
Toys R Us assistant manager Brenda Sanders straightens shelves in the newly opened store at the Capital Mall in Jefferson City. The store is one of many that will open for the holiday season.

Although Christmas is still 80 days away, the Capital Mall in Jefferson City is gearing up for the holidays. Under new ownership this holiday season, some changes will be made.

General manager Jamie Reed said two new stores are already open for business, and more are soon to follow. Toys "R" Us Express opened up last week and gift boutique Willow Circle opened this weekend. Both are located in the Dillard's wing. T-shirt Shack, carrying a variety of T-shirts as well as NASCAR collectibles, is also slated to open soon.

Reed said he's hoping Toys "R" Us will stick around for good, although they have a certain sales goal they must meet in order for that to happen. The mall will be doing special sales promotions and advertising in hopes of drawing people.

Other stores and kiosks will be moving in throughout October and November, planning to stay through late December.

"These stores will have all kinds of gifts from barbecue utensils to personalized picture frames and infinity lights," Reed said. He noted one kiosk will also be dedicated solely to Christmas ornaments.

"There is still some stuff that could pan out, but it's a good start," the manager said.

October begins the busiest season of the year for the retail hub, beginning with Halloween and indoor trick-or-treating for the kids. Reed said the stores will be giving out candy from 5-9 p.m. on Halloween night, providing a safe alternative for the Oct. 31 holiday.

Many stores will open extra early on Black Friday beginning at midnight, and more at 6 a.m. Holiday hours will begin Dec. 7.

Santa Claus is coming Nov. 22 and will stay through Christmas Eve. St. Nicholas will be set up in the commons area in the JC Penney wing with many new decorations. A large stage area with a Christmas tree will be displayed in the center court, and the mall has scheduled different singing groups for caroling. Reed said there is still room for more groups if anyone is interested.

Also this year, the mall will be partnering with the Salvation Army. There will be an Angel Tree set up throughout November and December where patrons can give back to the community.

"This gives folks the opportunity to buy and donate gifts for individual children in need instead of adopting an entire family," Reed added.

The overall goal of the Capital Mall continues since it was purchased by the local Farmer brothers group, F&F Development, early 2013 this year. Reed said his focus has been, and will continue to be, getting the storefronts filled and people in the door.

"We are getting closer with several national tenants. We will continue to work hard to bring more selection to the mall. That includes stores and restaurants," Reed said. "It's a process, and we're making progress."

Information on special events and extended hours can be found on the Capital Mall's Facebook page or at www.capitalmall.com.

Accompanying photo: Brenda Sanders straightens toy store shelves