Mall Shopping Reinvented
Edison Mall continues to innovate
Edison Mall is the only enclosed, super- regional mall in Fort Myers. The mall opened in 1965 with J. C. Penney and Sears, making it the first mall to contain both stores, before ultimately expanding in 2007. Owned by Simon Property Group, the mall also includes Macy’s and Dillard’s, with more than 160 specialty shops and a lifestyle center section.
The popular shopping destination features updated tile floors, soft seating areas, a fountain renovation, and other special touches to enhance the shopping experience. Guests can shop from a wide variety of popular retailers including Aeropostale, American Eagle, Coach, New York & Company, Ann Taylor Loft, Bath & Body Works, BooksA- Million, Disney Store, Yankee Candle, Victoria’s Secret, and more. Shoppers will find stores for everyone— the young family, a traveling couple, or single entrepreneur.
Dining options range from grab- and- go counter- service choices like Subway and Latino Restaurant to full- service restaurants such as Buca di Beppo, Elephant Bar, and Sbarro. Have a craving for something sweet or refreshing? Top off a day of shopping with a special treat from Starbucks or Yogurt Mountain.
Every month, the mall offers great interactive and family- oriented events in addition to sales and promotional events. From educational and informational to fun and lighthearted, each event focuses on bringing the community together.
Last year, Edison Mall welcomed the Simon Kidgits Club ® program, which focuses on health, wellness, education, safety, and entertainment for children ages 3 to 8. Each Simon Kidgits Club member receives an official membership package and T- shirt at the time of enrollment. Other membership benefits include a “spin” at the prize wheel whenever the Kidgits Club member visits the mall; special invitations to programs and activities; special discounts and rewards for members only; a Birthday Club ( including birthday card and gift redemption certificates); and a periodic newsletter with games, educational features, and news. A special Simon Kidgits Club website, simon. com/ kidgits, offers more club information and activities. Families can also get information as well as sign up at Guest Services in Edison Mall.
In celebration of the holiday season, Edison Mall will host several events for parents and children of all ages. Starting November 9 and continuing through December 24, families are encouraged to stop by and snap a memorable photo with Santa Claus during mall hours. The mall will host Caring Santa on December 8 from 10 to 11 a. m. dedicated to families that have children with special needs, providing a subdued environment to visit The Santa Photo Experience. Many steps are taken to reduce sensory triggers, creating a more comforting environment for the children’s magical visit with Santa.
THE YOUNG FAMILY, A TRAVELING COUPLE, OR SINGLE ENTREPRENEUR.
On December 16 from 8: 30 to 9: 30 a. m., kids will have the chance to have Breakfast with Santa and participate in fabulous Christmas- oriented activities. Traditionally, Santa will read one of the holiday classics and kids will enjoy special crafts, games, music, and more. On November 17 and 24, area residents are invited to bring their precious pooches to the mall from 6 to 8 p. m. for memorable photos with Santa Claus. Please note that all Santa photo prices vary; more details are available online or at the Santa Set.
Throughout the holiday season, shoppers can expect their experience to be even more rewarding and enjoyable through Edison Mall’s “surprise and delight” initiative. Each day, the mall management staff will introduce themselves and say “thank you” for shopping— and maybe even present a holiday treat. These gifts will vary, but visitors can expect things like a free coffee, restaurant coupon, or perhaps some candy or other snack.
In correlation with the annual Black Friday kickoff to the holiday shopping season, Edison Mall will begin to have extended hours, accommodating eager shoppers who want to get started early on their gift- buying. Check the mall website for a list of extended holiday hours.
Conveniently located at the intersection of U. S. 41 and Colonial Boulevard, Edison Mall serves the greater Fort Myers area. The mall is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a. m. to 9 p. m., and Sunday from 11: 30 a. m. to 5: 30 p. m. For more information, call 239- 939- 5464 or f ollow on Facebook (@ edisonmall), Twitter (@ ShopEdisonMall), and Instagram (@ ShopEdisonMall). TOTI Media guest contributor Hayden Rome is a Florida public relations professional based in Houston.