June 1, 2026

New retailers are opening in The Empire Mall for summer.

JD Sports opened May 23 next to the Sanford Children’s Play Area in the former Lane Bryant space.

It offers athletic footwear, apparel and accessories.

The business was founded in England in 1981 and is known for carrying major brands in addition to its own private label.

Down the hallway in the Macy’s wing, Gap Factory is set to open Wednesday. It took over several storefronts.

Also opening this summer is Pacsun in the original lulelemon space near the food court. An opening date has not been announced.

Bath & Body Works has relocated while its space next to the food court is getting a full remodel.

The store moved into the former Eddie Bauer space a couple of weeks ago. It’s too soon to tell when the construction work will be done, a manager said. She expects it will be late August at the earliest.

Work is underway on the Dick’s House of Sport location that is coming to the former Sears site. The project also will include an athlete field outside. The store is expected to open in the fall and will replace Dick’s Sporting Goods.