If you live in Waldorf, Maryland or visit frequently, chances are you pass the Shops at Waldorf Center frequently. The 502,000 sq. ft shopping center is one of the most well-known shopping destinations in Waldorf, Maryland.
As a fellow entrepreneur and the assistant general manager of The Shops at Waldorf Center, Natonya Thomas has seen economic growth in Waldorf first hand.
The Shops at Waldorf Center is a property of Madison Marquette, and has been in the community since 1989. The shopping center brings to you Beauty Max, CVS, David’s Bridal, Denny’s, Five Below, GNC, H&R Block, Michaels, Mission BBQ, Party City, ROSS, PETSMART, Silver Diner, Sweet Frog and more.
During the pandemic, Madison Marquette saw an opportunity to utilize their growing vacancies around the country to help local small business thrive.
They decided to turn these vacancies into useful spaces for local small business owners giving birth to what is now the “Pop-Up & Grow” in Waldorf. The former space that held H. H. Gregg now hosts up to 100 pop-up vendors every weekend.
In addition to the vacancies, Natonya says they have donated two vacant store fronts under the pop-up initiative, to help local small businesses like “The Space” and “Fairy Time Museum” test their brands with their own storefront.
This social impact model is supporting small business in Waldorf by providing exposure for businesses to prove their new product or service offering, expand their customer base, and to build brand awareness. Local residents and visitors can stop by these spaces and experience brands in the making.
The Pop-Up & Grow features both national names and boutique vendors like Phatsouls Sauces, Love You First Wear, Mara Ashunti Creations, NAACP, GRIHAOE and many more. Customers of the Pop-Up & Grow are in for an eclectic experience featuring candles, clothing, custom shoes, jewelry, premium grade CBD, spices, natural hair care products and many more.
Pop-Up & Grow is located at The Shops at Waldorf Centers, 3000 Festival Way, Waldorf, MD 20601 and opens every weekend at 11am.
Visit @TheShopsatWaldorfCenter on Facebook to learn more about Pop Up & Grow and for updates and business inquiries.
We have gathered some amazing stories we will be sharing on @WaldorfLive Facebook page.
