West Valley’s Rise as Arizona’s Retail Powerhouse

The West Valley is undergoing a retail transformation unlike in metro Phoenix. Once viewed as a quieter suburban area, the region has rapidly evolved into a thriving retail and economic hub, fueled by massive population growth, corporate investments, and high consumer demand.

A Wave of Development

Major shopping centers are reshaping the landscape, with developers racing to meet pent-up demand for new stores and restaurants. Two of the largest upcoming projects—the Prasada Shopping Centers in Surprise and Verrado Marketplace in Buckeye—are set to open by 2026, bringing with them hundreds of thousands of square feet of retail space.

"You’re seeing a lot of projects in full swing," said Ryan Desmond, partner at Western Retail Advisors. "And it’s only going to accelerate."

Beyond these developments, additional projects such as Laveen Towne Center and Halo Vista will contribute to the retail boom, expected to deliver their first phase between 2027 and 2028.

Economic Forces Driving Growth

The surge in retail construction is closely tied to the region’s broader economic expansion. Major employers like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) and Amkor Technology Inc. are establishing footholds in the West Valley, bringing thousands of workers and their families to the area.

As consumer spending strengthens, shopping center foot traffic in Phoenix returned to 98% of pre-pandemic levels by late 2024, according to research from Avison Young. Retail vacancies have dropped to just 5.3%, while asking rents continue to climb quarter-over-quarter.

"Retail development is thriving in the West Valley, creating new opportunities for businesses and residents alike," said Raoul Sada, President & CEO of the Northwest Valley Chamber of Commerce.

TSMC alone is investing up to $165 billion in its Phoenix campus, a move that is expected to shift retail activity northward to support the growing workforce. Already, shopping center foot traffic in Phoenix had rebounded to 98% of pre-pandemic levels by late 2024, according to research from Avison Young.

Sada also emphasized the broader economic impact of the retail boom, stating, "The West Valley is no longer just an extension of metro Phoenix—it’s a destination in its own right. With world-class businesses investing here and a retail surge unlike anything we’ve seen before, this region is becoming a thriving hub for innovation, commerce, and community."

He added, "What we’re seeing now is just the beginning. The momentum is undeniable—retail, dining, entertainment, and major employers are fueling a cycle of growth that will redefine the West Valley for decades to come. This is where the future is being built."

Retail Growth Spreading Beyond the West Valley

While the West Valley is seeing the most dramatic growth, other parts of metro Phoenix are also benefiting from retail expansion. Developers are turning their attention to San Tan Valley and Florence, where ample land remains available for commercial development. Additionally, infill projects across Phoenix, including the redevelopment of defunct malls, are contributing to the city’s evolving retail landscape.

Retail expansion is also expected to push west of the White Tank Mountains along Sun Valley Parkway, home to emerging master-planned communities such as Teravalis.

Key Retail Projects to Watch in 2025

Among the most significant retail developments currently underway:

• Verrado Marketplace – A 500,000 sq. ft. retail center featuring Target, Safeway, Harkins Theatres, and Home Depot.
• GSQ in Goodyear – A mixed-use destination combining retail, offices, restaurants, and a new hotel.
• The BLVD in Avondale – A growing downtown district with multifamily housing, pedestrian-friendly streets, and entertainment venues.
• Laveen Towne Center – A $245 million investment bringing 500,000 sq. ft. of retail space to west Phoenix.
• Village at Prasada – A nearly $1 billion investment introducing over 100 new tenants to Surprise.
• Surprise City Center – A multi-use expansion integrating shopping, dining, and office space in Surprise’s downtown core.

With these developments set to transform the West Valley, residents can expect an unprecedented wave of retail, entertainment, and economic opportunities in the coming years. As construction progresses, the area is cementing its place as one of Arizona’s fastest-growing retail markets.