Popular retail chain to open new location in Merced. Here’s when and where
Another national retailer is headed to Merced.
As shoppers continue welcoming Vallarta Supermarkets to the Marketplace at Merced, mall officials said, another new tenant is on the way.
Spencer’s has signed on to open a storefront at the shopping center.
“Known for its unique retail experience and recognizable brand, Spencer’s adds another national retailer to our property’s expanding lineup,” mall officials said.
Merced residents have already started a discussion on Reddit about the new Spencer’s addition to the local retail scene.
“We used to have an International Imports (a headshop) on the mall, but this is next level,” Reddit user L_Dubb wrote in a comment.
“I can finally one-stop shop for a McLovin shirt and furry handcuffs,” user DMazz209 commented.
Here’s what to know about its opening:
What is Spencer’s?
Spencer’s is a national retail chain known for novelty gifts, graphic apparel, pop culture merchandise and edgy accessories.
According to the company website, it is the “go-to destination for the latest trends.”
Founded in 1947, the New Jersey-based company operates more than 600 stores across the United States and Canada.
The brand began as a mail-order catalog before opening its first brick-and-mortar store in 1963 at Cherry Hill Mall in New Jersey.
Over the years, it evolved from Spencer Gifts into the Spencer’s chain known today for its "buzz-worthy products.”
What does Spencer’s sell?
Spencer’s is best known for its pop culture inventory and novelty items.
Its merchandise includes graphic tees, body jewelry, room decor, gag gifts, collectibles and other trend-focused accessories.
Where will Spencer’s open in Merced?
According to mall officials, Spencer’s will open at 851 West Olive Ave., Suite 271, in the Marketplace at Merced.
The store will take over the vacant space between Shoe Palace and Aeropostale.
Although it will be part of the mall, officials said, the entrance will face the exterior of the property rather than the interior.
The retailer has signed a 10-year lease for the approximately 2,511-square-foot space, which is currently under construction.
When will Spencer’s open at Marketplace mall?
Mall officials said the lease is scheduled to begin in October.
While an official grand opening date has not yet been announced, mall officials said, "a late 2026 or early 2027 opening would be a reasonable expectation.”
“The addition of Spencer’s represents another investment in the continued revitalization of Marketplace at Merced,” mall officials said. “As new retailers join the center, residents gain additional shopping options while businesses benefit from increased traffic and activity throughout the property.”
