A New Kind of Store is Set to Open at Freehold, NJ Raceway Mall

Some people believe malls are dead, I beg to differ.

Many malls are innovating and bringing in new retailers to attract customers, and Freehold Raceway Mall is one of them.

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Not only is Freehold Raceway Mall unveiling new stores, but they are constantly hosting community events and free functions for the family.

We learned last week that Bob's Stores which is part of the Freehold Raceway Mall property on Trotters Way was in the process of closing.

This leaves a pretty big space for a shiny new retailer to move in.

In the past, I've asked you what you would like to see at Freehold Raceway Mall.

Here in Monmouth and Ocean counties we certainly have a craving for comfort food.

It doesn't matter what space, or where it is, people overwhelmingly want them a Cracker Barrel.

Dave & Busters is also a very popular request. Many think a D&B would be a no-brainer for the vacant Lord & Taylor, but no movement on this addition...yet.

Now, with Lord & Taylor empty for so long, one would only assume that it would take some time before Bob's Stores Freehold location would get a new occupant.

Keep in mind, that Lord & Taylor is attached to the mall which logistically makes things a little more difficult.

It turns out that there is a pretty big chain that is chomping at the bit to move into Bob's.

Over the past few years, they have been rapidly expanding their footprint in Monmouth and Ocean counties.

The Asbury Park Press is reporting that German grocer Lidl has already submitted a "preliminary site plan" to the Freehold Township Planning Board.

Nothing is set in stone yet, but it is expected to be soon, as this move is being made before Bob's Stores has even officially closed.

If Lidl moves in, this will be the first time Freehold Raceway Mall has ever had a grocery store.