FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
October 2, 2025
Contact:
Joe Bell
Director of Corporate Communications
Cafaro Company
330-743-7688
724-730-4532 (Mobile)
Cafaro Remains Focused on Middle Markets
Acquires Grand Central Mall in West Virginia
One of the nation’s pre-eminent shopping center developers has expanded its property portfolio. CAFARO is pleased to announce that it has acquired Grand Central Mall in Vienna/Parkersburg, West Virginia, from Washington Prime Group. The acquisition was finalized on October 1, 2025. The all-cash purchase price was not disclosed. This is the third Cafaro mall serving West Virginia, the others being Huntington Mall in Barboursville and Meadowbrook Mall in Bridgeport/Clarksburg. Additionally, Ohio Valley Mall in St. Clairsville, Ohio, serves the Wheeling, West Virginia market.
“We believe strongly in the viability of middle market shopping centers – a segment of the industry we have led for generations.” said Cafaro Company Co-President Anthony Cafaro, Jr. “Consistent with the balance of our portfolio, we will be infusing the necessary capital and expertise to attract best-in-class retailers, restaurants, and entertainment venues to Grand Central Mall. We are excited to incorporate Grand Central Mall and its vast trade area spanning two states into our portfolio of dominant fortress mall assets.”
In its fifth decade of operation, Grand Central Mall has consistently evolved its offerings and boasts over 5 million unique visits annually. Recent additions include the redevelopment of a former Sears anchor to accommodate retail stalwarts T.J.Maxx, HomeGoods, Ross Dress For Less, and PetSmart complemented by ULTA, Old Navy, Five Below, and Panera which shadow anchor the mall. Cafaro is in the planning stage of a future mall-wide renovation aimed at creating a more fresh, modern and functional atmosphere for its patrons and retail partners.
Grand Central Mall and contiguous centers and outparcels owned by Cafaro encompass nearly 1 million SF serving Vienna/Parkersburg, WV, and the surrounding region including, Marietta, Ohio. The complex occupies nearly 100 acres on the Ohio River in the City of Vienna, and adjacent to the City of Parkersburg. It is the only major shopping destination within a 70+ mile radius. The property offers a dynamic mix of more than 65 retailers, restaurants and other businesses.
About The Cafaro Company
CAFARO, based in Niles, Ohio, is one of the nation’s largest privately held shopping center developers. Founded by the late William M. Cafaro in 1949, the firm is now in its eighth decade and third generation as a family owned and managed business. Over the years, Cafaro-affiliated companies have developed, owned and managed more than 50 million square feet of commercial real estate in 14 states. With the purchase of Grand Central Mall, Cafaro will operate 13 enclosed malls, along with more than 40 open-air shopping centers, coast-to-coast. For more information about Cafaro, visit online at www.cafarocompany.com.
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