From lease signing to open sign — the key steps to opening your store at a mall

Navigate the road to your grand opening with expert tips and sample construction timelines

Embarking on opening a retail store in the mall? Before you envision your ribbon-cutting ceremony, let's explore what happens after you sign a lease (make sure to check out our article on the five must-do tasks before signing a lease). In retail, the store buildout process is where the magic truly begins. Preparation will be your best friend in the complicated process. We're here to be your guide during your store buildout process with essential insights, timelines, and insider tips to ensure your journey is smooth sailing.

Store buildout timing estimates

Let’s start with timing. The duration of your store buildout depends on several factors, including format, size, and the initial condition of the space. (Learn more about retail store formats). The following is a breakdown of timing estimates you can expect:

• Simple signage and paint-only buildouts (approx. 15–27+ weeks): Taking over a space from a previous tenant and making only simple enhancements? Congratulations, your buildout won’t be as involved as other options.

• Cosmetic buildouts (approx. 16–40+ weeks): Keep the space's bones intact while upgrading lighting, paint, cash wrap designs, and fixtures for a fresh look.

• Kiosk buildouts (approx. 19–27+ weeks): These compact formats in common areas of the mall require some off-site fabrication and on-site installation, but they’re worth the wait.

• Full inline store buildouts (approx. 24–50+ weeks): From raw spaces to full remodels, expect mechanical, HVAC, and structural work along with design upgrades for a stunning transformation.

• Restaurant buildouts (approx. 30–66+ weeks): The most complex journey awaits food concepts with extensive equipment, mechanical installations, and important food safety measures.

Store buildout steps

With these timing estimates in mind, let’s double click into the steps that most buildouts require to give you a better idea of what your journey might look like:

Tips for success

Now that you're familiar with the time frames and steps involved in building out your store in a mall, we’ll leave you with a few key tips from our Brookfield Properties retail experts:

• Know your rent commencement date: This date, indicated in your lease documents, is not just when you start paying rent; it’s your target for the store's grand opening. Avoid paying "dark rent" (see The Retailvisory Glossary) by aligning buildout milestones with this date. You don’t want unexpected delays to eat into your profits.

• Consider second-generation spaces: If it’s your first venture into brick-and-mortar, consider a space that already has something to work with. Utilize elements left by the previous owner to save time and resources. Why start from scratch when you can build upon existing foundations?

• Plan, plan, plan: You should have a plan with key construction milestones already established before you sign your lease. Then, effective communication with contractors and mall management is crucial. Establish clear timelines and expectations and maintain regular check-ins for steady progress.

With these insights and strategies in hand, you’re ready to embark on your store buildout adventure with confidence. From lease signing to store opening, may your journey be filled with excitement, success, and the sweet satisfaction of seeing your vision come to life in the bustling corridors of the mall. Happy building!