Dillard’s to convert Ridgmar store into clearance center

Dillard’s is converting its department store at Ridgmar mall in Fort Worth to a clearance store, the latest in a series of changes underway at the west-side shopping center.

“We are continually evaluating our markets to determine the best store mix for the area. Such is the case with Ridgmar,” Dillard’s spokeswoman Julie Bull said via e-mail. She said the changeover is underway and will continue as clearance merchandise arrives from other stores in the area.

Last month, Macy’s announced that it will close its Ridgmar store as part of a plan to close 40 stores nationwide. Neiman Marcus is planning to move from Ridgmar to a new store at The Shops at Clearfork on the Edwards Ranch development next year. And H&M opened a clothing store there last year.

GK Development, which owns Ridgmar, was recently notified of Dillard’s plans, GK spokeswoman Candice McElyea said via e-mail. GK launched a multimillion-dollar renovation last year at the shopping center, at the northeast corner of Interstate 30 and Green Oaks Road. The first phase included new paint, lighting and railing on the second floor.

Dillard’s, which operates department stores at malls throughout North Texas including Hulen in Fort Worth, The Parks at Arlington and North East Mall in Hurst, also operates a clearance store at Six Flags Mall in Arlington.

GK, based in Barrington, Ill., acquired Ridgmar in 2013. At the time of the Macy’s announcement last month, GK President Garo Kholamian said the closing will provide a catalyst for the company’s redevelopment of the shopping center, which could include residences or a hotel on the property.

J.C. Penney and Sears are also anchor tenants at Ridgmar, which opened in 1976.

This story was originally published February 24, 2016 at 1:15 PM with the headline "Dillard’s to convert Ridgmar store into clearance center."