WKAR News goes in-depth to reveal how malls across Michigan are struggling to survive in the age of online shopping — and how some communities are reimagining retail for the future.

In the Capital Region, both the Lansing and Meridian malls are facing high vacancy rates — with more than a third of storefronts empty. While national mall owners stay quiet, local leaders are exploring big ideas, from new anchor stores to housing developments.

Jackson’s two malls tell very different stories. At Westwood Mall, more than half the storefronts are empty. Just a few miles away, Jackson Crossing is thriving — thanks to strong local management, community events, and a commitment to filling vacancies fast.

From grocery stores to mega entertainment spaces, Michigan malls are reimagining themselves as mixed-use destinations. Developers and tenants are blending retail, housing, and experiences to bring life back to aging shopping centers — and reshape what a mall can be.

As malls across Michigan fade, planners see both heartbreak and hope. Amy Vansen, editor of Michigan Planner, shares how communities can reimagine retail spaces with purpose — by engaging residents, leveraging existing infrastructure, and resisting the rush to redevelop.

WKAR’s Sophia Saliby sits down with reporters Anish Topiwala and Ed Coury to talk about Michigan’s dying malls — and what they uncovered during a month of reporting. From empty storefronts to redevelopment dead ends, the team reflects on the stories behind the vacancies, what malls used to mean to our communities, and whether they can ever be revived. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at Michigan’s Mall Meltdown and the future of retail in Mid-Michigan.