Brookfield Square has been under duress for several years. As online shopping and next day delivery services have dominated the market after the 2020 Covid pandemic, there is less demand for physical retail spaces.
Brookfield Square is no exception. As of mid-2025, more than half of their storefronts are vacant. Recently, Mitchell’s Fish Market, an upscale seafood restaurant and bar, shuttered its doors after years of service in the community.
Fortunately, the space is on track to see some new revitalization efforts.
Earlier this year, plans were announced to build a Brookfield Public Market in the space formerly occupied by Boston Store. The 2.1 acre space would have room for 12 different retailers, promoting small businesses and local entrepreneurs. The new construction is also hoped to create new economic opportunities in the struggling retail space.
While new the Brookfield Public Market undergoes construction and the approval process, there is still plenty to look forward to.
Starting in winter 2025, the City of Brookfield will be hosting its first annual Winter Farmer’s Market in the food court inside of Brookfield Square. The new market will be running each Saturday from 10 am until 2 pm until March of 2026. The first is scheduled to be held on Saturday, November 22, The warm, indoor space provides local vendors with a comfortable and reliable setting where they can continue selling their goods throughout the cold season.
For the past year, the mall has also been hosting the Brookfield Secret Market, which has brought new life to many empty storefronts. The first weekend of each month, a variety of vendors set up shop to sell vintage goods, retro treasures, and nearly everything imaginable.
Since the Secret Market began, it has expanded into other store fronts. Initially held exclusively in the former Victoria’s Secret store front, there are now three separate store fronts being utilized for the well attended event.
As Brookfield Square has fought to remain relevant, it has largely focused its energy on providing unique events, such as its annual Santa photos, which began this month. Despite the setbacks, many in the community are putting in effort to see the space brought back to life after several tumultuous years.
