Former Macy’s store at The Ontario Center is vacant no more

ONTARIO — The long-vacant former Macy’s building at The Ontario Center has a new owner, bringing fresh momentum to the location.

RK Real Estate and Development, a partner of Rural King Supply, recently purchased the former Macy’s building in Ontario for $2.7 million.

Founded in 1960 as a small family-owned farm store in Mattoon, Illinois, Rural King has become one of the fastest-growing, family-owned businesses in the country.

The retailer offers a wide range of products, including livestock supplies, clothing, hardware and, at select locations, compact RK tractors.

What’s next for the building?

According to a press release from RK Real Estate and Development, plans for the future use of the space have not been finalized. The company said it remains optimistic about its addition to Ontario and its future in the community.

The press release did not specify an opening date but said the company plans to release more information as it becomes available.

Crystal Tolliver, operations manager at The Ontario Center, said crews have worked on-site since the store’s closure.

“It’s exciting and very encouraging,” Tolliver said. “Having future-focused projects in the works reflects the long-term vision for the center and the confidence in its potential.”

Tolliver said while mall leadership cannot speak to specific plans for the building, they look forward to what ultimately moves forward.

“It’s rewarding to see momentum building and to know that the work being done now will have a lasting, positive impact on both the center and the community,” she said.

Momentum grows at The Ontario Center

The purchase followed months of coordination between multiple parties. Rural King and its real estate team led the acquisition, with collaboration throughout the process, according to Tolliver.

“Jim Edmonds, vice president of real estate development at Bruns, along with the team at Brait Capital, worked extremely hard to bring this deal together,” she said. “We’re grateful for their efforts and the professionalism demonstrated by everyone involved.”

Tolliver said the acquisition reinforces the momentum already building at The Ontario Center.

“Having committed ownership and active investment in the property allows us to continue repositioning The Ontario Center, strengthening our tenant mix and creating new opportunities for the community,” she said.

She added they are grateful for the support they continue to receive from tenants, partners and the community — with several projects continuing to move forward behind the scenes, including a food court renovation and plans for a larger, more engaging arcade.

“We’re proud of the direction The Ontario Center is heading and remain committed to being thoughtful, transparent and intentional as it continues to evolve,” Tolliver said. “We’re excited about what’s ahead and look forward to sharing more as plans progress.”