Part 5/7:
Despite the somber news from Big Lots, there is a sense of resilience in the local economy. Springfield Ward 7 City Councilor Tim Allen remarked that while these closures are unfortunate, economic growth is still very much alive in the area. Recent developments at the Eastfield Mall represent a wave of new businesses set to replace previous stores, indicating that revitalization efforts are underway.
Allen noted, “We just got the replacements for the Eastfield Mall... That’s a great selection of stores there as well and a boost for Springfield.” This suggests a pivot in the retail landscape, where new opportunities might arise even as established stores shut down.