Mall's iconic sign from Merced removed to make way for renovations
The Marketplace at Merced in California is undergoing a significant transformation, with exterior renovations now in full swing.
On July 26, 2025, the iconic red neon Merced Mall sign outside the JCPenney entrance was removed, signaling the official start of the exterior renovations. This notable event marked the beginning of a new era for shopping at Marketplace Merced.
Despite the removal of the sign, the stores and food court remain open during the construction work. The renovations are part of a larger $20 million redevelopment project that began in December 2024.
One of the key aspects of the renovation is the repurposing of the former 94,000-square-foot Sears building into an outdoor shopping area. This new development will feature well-known retail brands such as Burlington Coat Factory, Ulta Beauty, Petco, Five Below, Carter’s, and Bath & Body Works.
In addition, new retail developments like Boot Barn and Vallarta Supermarket, along with new dining options such as a Raising Cane’s off Olive Avenue in the parking lot, are also part of the project.
The aim of these renovations is to rejuvenate Marketplace Merced as a central shopping hub, capitalizing on its proximity to UC Merced and Merced College to attract more visitors and restore a lively community shopping experience.
Although renovations on one side of the mall began as early as 2017, delays occurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic and supply chain disruptions. However, the current works are progressing steadily with community enthusiasm.
In summary, the removal of the Merced Mall sign signifies the start of exterior renovations for the mall, which includes transforming the former Sears store into a vibrant outdoor retail space, attracting new retailers, dining options, and enhancing the mall’s appeal as a community and college-area shopping destination. The project is expected to continue and will result in a new shopping era for Marketplace Merced.
With the completion of the outdoor shopping area, locals can expect a refreshed home-and-garden lifestyle, as Carter’s and Bath & Body Works join the new retail developments. The transformation of Marketplace Merced is also attracting numerous dining options, such as Raising Cane’s, to cater to the enhanced lifestyle offerings.
