Macerich to come back with its “Give Back” BTS program

Big Brothers and Big Sisters will be among the many charities that will benefit from Big Mall Owner Macerich’s back-to-school season this year.

All 44 of the company’s regional properties participated in its first “Give Back for Back to School” last year, and all 44 are back to donate such things as backpacks, clothing, and school supplies to youth-oriented charities that also include United Way and Boys & Girls Clubs.

Last year’s inaugural program involved more than 80 local organizations and benefited more than 20,000 students.

“The back-to-school season is an important time of year for children everywhere, and it is our privilege to help underserved students in our markets with the items they need for a great start to the school year,” said Olivia Bartel Leigh, Macerich’s executive VP of portfolio operations and people.

BTS spending is expected to reach an record $41.5 billion this year, up from $36.9 billion in 2022 according to the National Retail Federation’s “2023 Back-to-School Survey.”

“This July, consumer confidence reached the highest level it’s been in two years,” noted Leigh, “and this only adds to our optimism for a strong back-to-school season at our well-situated properties in densely populated urban and suburban markets across the country.”

Macerich’s portfolio is concentrated in California, the Pacific Northwest, Phoenix/Scottsdale, and the Metro New York to Washington, D.C. corridor.