The age of the regional shopping center isn't over yet—at least not for well-placed properties interesting enough to attract shoppers. That's the bet Phoenix-based Vestar is making with the acquisition of the 409k SF Bowles Crossing in Littleton, CO, a major suburb of Denver. "In order to stay competitive in today's environment, retail properties need to create a unique destination with a sense of place," Vestar VP of acquisitions Clint Marchuk tells us.

Toward that end, Vestar plans to invest significant capital to improve and expand Bowles Crossing to include new retail, restaurants and a multifamily component, Clint says. The center's already a top regional shopping destination in the southwest Denver metro area, and counts on its tenant roster of Trader Joe’s, DSW Warehouse, Ross Dress for Less, Gordman’s and a newly renovated AMC Theatre, among others.