Picture this: a iconic Texas mall, buzzing with shoppers for decades, is on the verge of a radical makeover that could forever change its identity. But at what price to the beloved stores that have anchored it all these years? Let's dive into the story of how one retail powerhouse is saying goodbye, sparking debates about progress and preservation in our ever-shifting retail landscape.
The ongoing transformation of shopping centers in Texas just took another significant turn, as a major retailer with deep roots in the Lone Star State prepares to close up shop. A state WARN (Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification) notice, issued on November 8, reveals that the Dillard's location at Plano's The Shops at Willow Bend will cease operations in January 2026. This closure is set to result in approximately 93 job losses, likely occurring on or around January 12, 2026. For those new to the term, a WARN notice is a legal requirement in the U.S. to inform employees and the government about impending layoffs, giving workers time to prepare and seek new opportunities.
Dillard's held a prominent position as one of the four original anchor stores at The Shops at Willow Bend, a mall that first opened its doors in the Dallas-Fort Worth suburb back in 2001. The other foundational retailers were Foley's (a now-defunct department store chain), Lord & Taylor, and Neiman Marcus. Recently, Neiman Marcus, headquartered in Dallas, made headlines by announcing its departure from the same mall in January 2027, based on coverage from CBS News. The company's parent, Saks Global, decided to sell the property back to the mall's developer, describing it as a collaborative move that empowers the developer to pursue their ambitious plans for the space.
These high-profile exits from what was once hailed as one of North Texas's premier shopping destinations are directly tied to a grand 'transformational redevelopment project' underway at the aging center. The current owner and operator, Centennial, acquired the mall's Macy's store toward the end of 2024 and subsequently revised its blueprint for the site. The new vision, dubbed 'The Bend,' aims to convert the property into a vibrant mixed-use area – think modern townhome-style attached residences alongside standalone family homes, all integrated with retail and dining options. For beginners wondering what 'mixed-use' means, it's a smart urban planning concept where different types of developments – like living spaces, shops, and entertainment – coexist in one spot to create a lively, walkable community, rather than isolated zones.
As part of this ambitious overhaul, a section of the enclosed mall will be torn down to accommodate new housing, a welcoming hotel, even a dog park for furry friends, and thoughtfully landscaped green areas perfect for unwinding or hosting community events. Glancing at the latest renderings on the project's website, 'The Bend' promises to echo the success of Austin's The Domain – a bustling hub where upscale homes, entertainment venues, and lush parks blend seamlessly with stores, eateries, hotels, and more. This evolution reflects a broader trend in retail: as online shopping grows, physical malls are adapting by prioritizing lifestyle experiences that go beyond just buying goods.
But here's where it gets controversial – and this is the part most people miss in these big redevelopment stories. Recent pieces from the Plano Star Courier suggest an alternative fate for the Willow Bend site: it could become home to a brand-new hockey arena for the Dallas Stars. The NHL team's current lease at the American Airlines Center downtown expires in 2031, and a move just 21 miles north to Plano would mark a significant shift. Proponents might argue this brings economic boosts through jobs and tourism, but critics could point to concerns like increased traffic, higher property taxes, or the loss of public green spaces. Is plopping a sports venue in a mall redevelopment the best use of prime suburban real estate, or does it prioritize entertainment over community living? It raises eyebrows about whether taxpayer subsidies might fund private gains, potentially overshadowing the original mixed-use dreams.
To provide some context, Dillard's traces its origins back to 1938, when founder William T. Dillard opened the very first outlet – originally named T. J. Dillard’s – in Nashville, Arkansas. Through the years, the department store chain has evolved into a staple fixture in malls throughout Texas, offering everything from clothing to home goods and building a loyal customer base that values its wide selections and customer service.
As we wrap up this exploration of retail shifts and urban reinvention, it's clear that places like The Shops at Willow Bend are at a crossroads. Are we witnessing a necessary adaptation to keep communities vibrant and relevant, or are we sacrificing cherished retail traditions for uncertain futures? What do you think – should malls embrace these bold changes, or fight to preserve their classic shopping vibes? And if a hockey arena does emerge, would it unite the community or divide opinions on priorities? Share your perspectives in the comments below; I'd love to hear agreements, disagreements, or fresh ideas on how cities should evolve!
Nov 14, 2025
Features Editor
Taylor is a native Texan and features editor for MySA. She is from Austin and graduated from the University of Mississippi's School of Journalism and New Media with a bachelor's degree in journalism. Taylor has more than nine years of professional experience as a writer, reporter, content strategist and editor. She lives for live music and loves finding hidden gems in towns across the Lone Star State.
