Japanese entertainment giant Round1 Bowling & Arcade is making its mark in Chandler, Arizona by leasing a 65,000 square-foot venue at the Chandler Fashion Center. Known for its distinct blend of bowling and arcade thrills, the Asian company—which already boasts over 50 locations across the United States—is clearly aiming to quickly become a go-to hotspot in the "Valley."
According to an ABC15 report, this latest move will see Round1 occupying prime real estate previously held by retail giant Sears, which has left a notable vacancy in the mall's landscape. Shane Kaji, Round1’s executive vice president, told ABC15, "We want to provide endless fun and help our guests create special memories. With all of our different activities, there is something for everyone in the [Chandler] community." This new entertainment venue promises to draw not only locals but to potentially also become a new focal point for visitors across the state.
The Chandler Fashion Center, operated by retail heavy-hitter Macerich Co. (NYSE: MAC), seems determined to reinvent their malls as hubs of excitement beyond traditional shopping. With the addition of Round1, they are leaning hard into the concept that entertainment can be a substantial draw for customers. "Located in a portion of the former Sears, Round1 showcases Macerich’s strong abilities to replace lower-productivity retailers with popular, top-drawing new concepts that are a great fit for Metro Phoenix communities like Chandler," Chandler Fashion Center's general manager, Monica Greenman, said in a statement reported by the Phoenix Business Journal.
The move comes on the heels of Round1's successful Glendale location, which opened its doors in December 2023, and another center in Tucson. The venture aims to promise to further enliven the shopping center, which has recently seen a surge in visitors following the launch of sporting goods powerhouse Scheels last fall. The arrival of Scheels, as reported, did to more than double the day's foot traffic when it opened, according to the Phoenix Business Journal. While an official opening date for Round1 has yet to be announced, the Chandler Fashion Center’s website lists the entertainment venue as "coming soon." With gaming and bowling aficionados eagerly awaiting the doors to open, Round1 and the Chandler Fashion Center are poised potentially to strike a winning combination in the heart of Arizona.
