Westfield malls have a rich history rooted in innovation, expansion, and adaptation to changing retail landscapes. Here's an overview of how Westfield evolved over time:

Origins and Growth in Australia

The Westfield Group was founded in 1959 by John Saunders and Frank Lowy in the western suburbs of Sydney, Australia. Their first development, Westfield Place in Blacktown, opened in July 1959. The name "Westfield" was derived from "west" (reflecting the western Sydney location) and "field" (from the farmland on which it was built). The company expanded rapidly across Australia, becoming a dominant force in retail development.

International Expansion

In the 1970s, Westfield began its international expansion, starting with the acquisition of shopping centers in the United States. By 2005, the company owned centers in 15 U.S. states, including several in California. This expansion marked Westfield's transition from a regional developer to a global retail property group.

Transforming the Retail Experience

Westfield revolutionized the shopping mall experience by focusing on creating lifestyle centers that combined retail, dining, and entertainment. Malls like Westfield Century City in Los Angeles underwent significant renovations to include features like alfresco dining terraces and state-of-the-art cinemas, enhancing the overall shopping experience.