Vestar, the largest privately held shopping center owner and manager in the western United States, has officially broken ground on Verrado Marketplace, the West Valley’s next generation shopping center. In a ceremony attended by city leaders, developers, retailers, and community partners on Wednesday, November 20th, attendees heard remarks from Buckeye Mayor Eric Orsborn, Vestar’s President and CEO David Larcher, DMB’s Chief Operating Officer Dan Kelly, and Vestar’s Executive Vice President of Development Jeff Axtell.

Located at the northeast corner of the Interstate 10 Freeway and Verrado Way in Buckeye, Arizona, Verrado Marketplace will stand at the entrance to DMB Associates’ 8,800-acre Verrado master-planned community. Verrado Marketplace will offer Buckeye residents and the West Valley an unparalleled shopping, dining, and entertainment experience—all in one convenient location.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, Vestar unveiled an expansive roster of more than 15 new retailers that will join anchor tenants Target, Harkins Theaters newest ‘Backlot’ concept, Safeway, Ross, Marshalls, and HomeGoods.

ULTA Beauty, Famous Footwear, Buckle, Salt Tacos + Tequila, Bath & Body Works, Shake Shack, Handel’s Ice Cream, Nekter Juice, See’s Candies, Thai Chili, Einstein Bros. Bagels, Tropical Smoothie, Hawaiian Bros., European Wax Center, Zara Nails, Pacific Dental, America’s Best Contacts & Glasses, and Mountain America Credit Union are among the tenants projected to open starting spring 2026. The property will have over 50 retailers and restaurants once completed. Additional tenant announcements will be made in the coming months.

“The groundbreaking of Verrado Marketplace marks a historic moment for Buckeye, and we are excited to begin construction on this unique development,” said Vestar President and CEO David Larcher. “This shopping center will offer a dynamic mix of premium retail, dining, and entertainment, along with large gathering spaces that will serve as a community hub for both the Verrado community and entire West Valley. As the first of its kind in this region, we look forward to Verrado Marketplace becoming a landmark for this rapidly growing community.”

With a total investment of $275 million, Verrado Marketplace is projected to generate over $50 million in total tax revenue for the City of Buckeye and contribute an estimated $1.8 billion in economic output over the next 10 years. The development is also expected to bring more than 1,500 permanent jobs to the West Valley.

“As one of Verrado’s very first residents, I’ve driven past this vacant lot for over 20 years,” stated Buckeye Mayor, Eric Orsborn. “I couldn’t be more excited to finally see this land transformed into the vibrant destination we’ve always envisioned. The date-night restaurants, entertainment and retail that Buckeye residents have been asking for and truly deserve will soon be right in our backyard. This Vestar development will elevate Buckeye as the place to be in the West Valley and help drive growth throughout the entire city.”

The highly anticipated entertainment and lifestyle destination will feature unique amenities designed to enhance the visitor experience, including a splash pad, a live performance stage and video screen, and a half-acre central lawn surrounded by restaurants featuring outdoor fireplaces and more. Verrado Marketplace will also offer a “Sip & Stroll” experience, where guests over the age of 21 can consume alcoholic beverages while enjoying designated common areas within the property. Planned activities will include musical performances, holiday celebrations, and other community-focused events, further enhancing its role as a destination for local engagement.

Verrado Marketplace will benefit from Vestar’s GreenStar sustainability program, incorporating eco-friendly features and energy-efficient practices throughout development. Sustainable elements will include solar power, LED lighting, EV charging stations and the use of energy-efficient building materials—all designed to minimize the environmental impact and ensure the center’s long-term sustainability.