OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The shuttered Sears store at Ocala’s Paddock Mall will soon have new life and it will mean new dining, shopping and entertainment options for Ocala-area residents.
Chain link fence cordons off the area where construction has begun on what will become The Paddock Market.
The market will redevelop the nearly 146,000 square feet that housed a Sears store until it closed in 2018.
Developers, BSD Capital, are targeting startups and small businesses with 95 spaces in varying sizes and amenities including nine spaces for restaurants.
Danielle Enzinna, founder of marketing company Pink Paradigm, says the Paddock Market will feature handmade goods, local artisans, food trucks and more.
She expects a plethora of product diversity, from people selling bath soaps to jewelry, and anticipates a multicultural mix of cuisine.
Enzinna said the Paddock Market concept is modeled after the Oneco Farmer’s Market, another BSD Capital project, in Bradenton.
BSD Capital is currently accepting applications from interested businesses owners.
Customers will also have free Wi-Fi access, valet service, and a variety of entertainment will be consistently scheduled.
A Restaurant Depot will be constructed next to the market, which Enzinna says will be a huge advantage for the small vendors and restaurants so they can easily purchase supplies.
The former Sears automotive center is currently a “standalone parcel,” according to Enzinna, and will not be part of the Paddock Market. The land was initially going to be a health center, but the deal didn’t go through.
Paddock Market is slated to open on October 1.
