Simon Property, Amazon look at turning mall space into fulfillment centers

Mall operator Simon Property Group has been in talks with Amazon.com about turning some of its department-store sites into Amazon fulfillment centers, The Wall Street Journal reported.

The two companies have explored converting retail space formerly occupied by J.C. Penney and Sears Holdings into Amazon distribution centers, while in some cases, Simon and Amazon explored buying out occupied space from the retailers, the report said, citing sources.

Simon’s discussions with Amazon have been under way for months and began before the coronavirus pandemic, according to the report.

It is possible that the two sides could fail to reach an agreement, the report said, citing the sources.

A spokeswoman for Amazon said the company has a policy of not commenting on rumors or speculation, when contacted by Reuters. Simon Property did not respond to a Reuters request for comment. Both J.C. Penney and Sears declined to comment.