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Southland Mall in Regina is marking its 50th anniversary with an evolving mix of tenants, strategic upgrades, and a renewed focus on community engagement. The centre, managed by Toronto-based Salthill Capital, has emerged as one of the strongest retail destinations in the city, outpacing many of its competitors with a strategy that blends national anchors, local entrepreneurs, and family-friendly amenities.<\/p>\n
Opened on March 19, 1975, the fully enclosed shopping centre has grown into a hub for residents in Regina\u2019s south end, drawing visitors with over 75 retailers, restaurants, and services. Anchored by Canadian Tire, Safeway, Indigo, SportChek, and Cineplex Odeon, the shopping centre continues to attract a wide demographic, supported by convenient access to highways and proximity to the University of Regina.<\/p>\n
\u201cHaving the right anchors and retail mix has been essential,\u201d said Petr Kafka, Principal, Leasing at Salthill Capital. \u201cWe don\u2019t pretend to have cracked the code, but we see a pattern and have merchandised strategically. Canadian Tire, Safeway, Indigo, Dollar Tree, and Cineplex all contribute to a diverse mix, and they help drive steady traffic throughout the day and into the evening.\u201d<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/retailinsider.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/image-22.png\")
Building on Anchor Strengths<\/strong><\/h2>\nIn Regina, shopping centres live and die by their anchor tenants. Southland Mall has managed to retain stability despite the exit of Walmart years ago, shifting its mix toward mid-size anchors and specialized retailers. Cineplex Odeon brings evening foot traffic that helps sustain food and beverage tenants, while banks and national restaurants on the centre\u2019s pads add further strength.<\/p>\n
Salthill Capital, which manages the property, has also invested in the success of its tenants. \u201cWe\u2019ve worked on creating the right environment,\u201d Kafka explained. \u201cPart of that is making sure the shopping centre feels safe, well maintained, and accessible, which is something that can\u2019t always be said about other Regina centres.\u201d<\/p>\n
Suburban Regina malls such as Northgate and Victoria Square have struggled with high vacancy rates, while Cornwall Centre downtown faces challenges tied to safety perceptions. By comparison, Southland has leveraged its location and a strong tenant mix to remain competitive.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/retailinsider.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/SK_REGINA_AERIAL_0043_RGB_8x10.jpg\")
Aerial view of Southland Mall in Regina. Photo: Salthill Capital<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\u201cThe goal has always been to offer a wide variety of options for the community, encouraging our visitors to spend more time at the shopping centre.\u201d said Shawn Pharasi, Vice President of Asset Management at Salthill Capital.<\/p>\n
A Platform for Local Entrepreneurs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/retailinsider.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/image-51.png\")
Shawn Pharasi, Vice President of Asset Management at Salthill Capital<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nOne of the defining features of Southland Mall\u2019s recent strategy has been its commitment to local businesses. Salthill created \u201cThe Spot,\u201d a dedicated platform for entrepreneurs and community organizations to showcase products and services through pop-ups and activations, and host local-focused events.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur strategy has really paid off,\u201d Pharasi said. \u201cWe\u2019ve worked hard to identify the main players in Regina across different categories, and we\u2019ve successfully relocated several popular local businesses into Southland.\u201d<\/p>\n
These include Nico Lady + Baby, a higher-end children\u2019s clothing and equipment store with a loyal social media following, as well as Dots Fashion, which has a strong digital presence and devoted customer base. Specialty retailers like Cutting Edge that relocated from Victoria Square have also seen strong performance in their new Southland location.<\/p>\n
\u201cHaving tenants who are plugged into Facebook groups, Instagram, and the active online community creates a ripple effect,\u201d Kafka explained. \u201cIt builds on their loyal following, drives events, and creates a sense of belonging. That grassroots energy often attracts attention from national brands.\u201d<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/retailinsider.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/SK_REGINA_4188_RGB_8x10.jpg\")
Southland Mall in Regina. Photo: Salthill Capital<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nFamily-Friendly Amenities<\/strong><\/h2>\nRecognizing the realities of Regina\u2019s climate, Southland Mall has invested in family-oriented amenities. A new play area, combined with a branch of the Regina Public Library inside the centre, provides valuable year-round spaces for families.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn Regina, temperatures swing from plus 40 to minus 40,\u201d Kafka said. \u201cWe wanted to provide a safe enclosed space where families could come together all year round. The library, the play area, and The Spot all serve that purpose. They create an environment where parents and children feel welcome and safe, which in turn drives more visits and dwell time.\u201d<\/p>\n
Salthill views these investments as part of a long-term strategy to make Southland more than just a retail centre. \u201cIf we can create reasons for families to come and spend time here, then our tenants benefit from higher sales and more consistent traffic,\u201d Pharasi added.<\/p>\n
New Tenants and Redevelopment<\/strong><\/h2>\nThe property has also benefited from reinvestment by national tenants. Chop Steakhouse & Bar has undertaken a relaunch, with a grand opening set for this fall, while Montana\u2019s has completed a renovation. A new Shoppers Drug Mart is currently under construction, signalling confidence from one of Canada\u2019s largest pharmacy chains.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhenever you see national brands doubling down, it\u2019s a sign of strength,\u201d Kafka noted. \u201cAt the same time, we continue to curate our tenant mix by handpicking operators who are innovative and community-minded.\u201d<\/p>\n
Pharasi highlighted the strong performance of the shopping centre\u2019s restaurant pads and suggested more announcements are forthcoming. \u201cWe\u2019re in discussions with another national brand for a pad site. While I can\u2019t share details yet, we\u2019re optimistic about continuing to diversify our offering.\u201d<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/retailinsider.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/34-web-or-mls-southland-mall.jpg\")
Southland Mall in Regina. Photo: Salthill Capital<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nCompeting with Downtown<\/strong><\/h2>\nFor decades, downtown Regina\u2019s Cornwall Centre has been regarded as the city\u2019s dominant shopping destination, drawing higher-end fashion and national brands that favoured its central location. Retailers such as Sephora and Lululemon have gravitated to the downtown mall, cementing its position as the go-to for elevated categories. Cornwall also historically benefitted from housing Regina\u2019s Hudson\u2019s Bay department store, a once traditional retail anchor for downtowns across the country. That space is now expected to be occupied by an unconfirmed new tenant.<\/p>\n
However, shifting habits and concerns about downtown safety are altering the competitive landscape. \u201cIf it\u2019s going to be higher-end fashion, those brands still gravitate toward Cornwall,\u201d Pharasi acknowledged. \u201cBut in recent years, the safety, accessibility and parking in downtown has become an issue.\u201d<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/retailinsider.b-cdn.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/33-web-or-mls-southland-mall.jpg\")
Southland Mall in Regina. Photo: Salthill Capital<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nLooking Ahead<\/strong><\/h2>\nSouthland Mall\u2019s leadership sees continued opportunity in blending retail, entertainment, and services. Fitness is one category under active consideration, and Salthill\u2019s strategy will continue to prioritize community activation and tenant diversity.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re seeing shoppers who are purposeful,\u201d Kafka said. \u201cThey come in knowing what they want, often after researching online, and they make purchases quickly. That\u2019s why it\u2019s so important for us to curate the right mix of retailers, provide engaging events, and ensure a safe and welcoming environment.\u201d<\/p>\n
As Southland Mall celebrates 50 years in Regina, its formula of strong anchors, community partnerships, and consistent reinvestment positions it well for the future. While other centres in the city face vacancy and reinvention challenges, Southland Mall has remained steady by adapting to local needs and fostering a tenant mix that reflects both national strength and grassroots energy.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur focus is simple,\u201d Pharasi concluded. \u201cProvide options, support our tenants, and keep improving the experience. That\u2019s how Southland Mall will continue to thrive.\u201d<\/p>\n
More from Retail Insider: <\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
\u201cThe goal has always been to offer a wide variety of options for the community, encouraging our visitors to spend more time at the shopping centre.\u201d said Shawn Pharasi, Vice President of Asset Management at Salthill Capital.<\/p>\n
A Platform for Local Entrepreneurs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\nShawn Pharasi, Vice President of Asset Management at Salthill Capital<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nOne of the defining features of Southland Mall\u2019s recent strategy has been its commitment to local businesses. Salthill created \u201cThe Spot,\u201d a dedicated platform for entrepreneurs and community organizations to showcase products and services through pop-ups and activations, and host local-focused events.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur strategy has really paid off,\u201d Pharasi said. \u201cWe\u2019ve worked hard to identify the main players in Regina across different categories, and we\u2019ve successfully relocated several popular local businesses into Southland.\u201d<\/p>\n
These include Nico Lady + Baby, a higher-end children\u2019s clothing and equipment store with a loyal social media following, as well as Dots Fashion, which has a strong digital presence and devoted customer base. Specialty retailers like Cutting Edge that relocated from Victoria Square have also seen strong performance in their new Southland location.<\/p>\n
\u201cHaving tenants who are plugged into Facebook groups, Instagram, and the active online community creates a ripple effect,\u201d Kafka explained. \u201cIt builds on their loyal following, drives events, and creates a sense of belonging. That grassroots energy often attracts attention from national brands.\u201d<\/p>\nSouthland Mall in Regina. Photo: Salthill Capital<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nFamily-Friendly Amenities<\/strong><\/h2>\nRecognizing the realities of Regina\u2019s climate, Southland Mall has invested in family-oriented amenities. A new play area, combined with a branch of the Regina Public Library inside the centre, provides valuable year-round spaces for families.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn Regina, temperatures swing from plus 40 to minus 40,\u201d Kafka said. \u201cWe wanted to provide a safe enclosed space where families could come together all year round. The library, the play area, and The Spot all serve that purpose. They create an environment where parents and children feel welcome and safe, which in turn drives more visits and dwell time.\u201d<\/p>\n
Salthill views these investments as part of a long-term strategy to make Southland more than just a retail centre. \u201cIf we can create reasons for families to come and spend time here, then our tenants benefit from higher sales and more consistent traffic,\u201d Pharasi added.<\/p>\n
New Tenants and Redevelopment<\/strong><\/h2>\nThe property has also benefited from reinvestment by national tenants. Chop Steakhouse & Bar has undertaken a relaunch, with a grand opening set for this fall, while Montana\u2019s has completed a renovation. A new Shoppers Drug Mart is currently under construction, signalling confidence from one of Canada\u2019s largest pharmacy chains.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhenever you see national brands doubling down, it\u2019s a sign of strength,\u201d Kafka noted. \u201cAt the same time, we continue to curate our tenant mix by handpicking operators who are innovative and community-minded.\u201d<\/p>\n
Pharasi highlighted the strong performance of the shopping centre\u2019s restaurant pads and suggested more announcements are forthcoming. \u201cWe\u2019re in discussions with another national brand for a pad site. While I can\u2019t share details yet, we\u2019re optimistic about continuing to diversify our offering.\u201d<\/p>\nSouthland Mall in Regina. Photo: Salthill Capital<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nCompeting with Downtown<\/strong><\/h2>\nFor decades, downtown Regina\u2019s Cornwall Centre has been regarded as the city\u2019s dominant shopping destination, drawing higher-end fashion and national brands that favoured its central location. Retailers such as Sephora and Lululemon have gravitated to the downtown mall, cementing its position as the go-to for elevated categories. Cornwall also historically benefitted from housing Regina\u2019s Hudson\u2019s Bay department store, a once traditional retail anchor for downtowns across the country. That space is now expected to be occupied by an unconfirmed new tenant.<\/p>\n
However, shifting habits and concerns about downtown safety are altering the competitive landscape. \u201cIf it\u2019s going to be higher-end fashion, those brands still gravitate toward Cornwall,\u201d Pharasi acknowledged. \u201cBut in recent years, the safety, accessibility and parking in downtown has become an issue.\u201d<\/p>\nSouthland Mall in Regina. Photo: Salthill Capital<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nLooking Ahead<\/strong><\/h2>\nSouthland Mall\u2019s leadership sees continued opportunity in blending retail, entertainment, and services. Fitness is one category under active consideration, and Salthill\u2019s strategy will continue to prioritize community activation and tenant diversity.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re seeing shoppers who are purposeful,\u201d Kafka said. \u201cThey come in knowing what they want, often after researching online, and they make purchases quickly. That\u2019s why it\u2019s so important for us to curate the right mix of retailers, provide engaging events, and ensure a safe and welcoming environment.\u201d<\/p>\n
As Southland Mall celebrates 50 years in Regina, its formula of strong anchors, community partnerships, and consistent reinvestment positions it well for the future. While other centres in the city face vacancy and reinvention challenges, Southland Mall has remained steady by adapting to local needs and fostering a tenant mix that reflects both national strength and grassroots energy.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur focus is simple,\u201d Pharasi concluded. \u201cProvide options, support our tenants, and keep improving the experience. That\u2019s how Southland Mall will continue to thrive.\u201d<\/p>\n
More from Retail Insider: <\/h2>\n<\/div>\n
One of the defining features of Southland Mall\u2019s recent strategy has been its commitment to local businesses. Salthill created \u201cThe Spot,\u201d a dedicated platform for entrepreneurs and community organizations to showcase products and services through pop-ups and activations, and host local-focused events.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur strategy has really paid off,\u201d Pharasi said. \u201cWe\u2019ve worked hard to identify the main players in Regina across different categories, and we\u2019ve successfully relocated several popular local businesses into Southland.\u201d<\/p>\n
These include Nico Lady + Baby, a higher-end children\u2019s clothing and equipment store with a loyal social media following, as well as Dots Fashion, which has a strong digital presence and devoted customer base. Specialty retailers like Cutting Edge that relocated from Victoria Square have also seen strong performance in their new Southland location.<\/p>\n
\u201cHaving tenants who are plugged into Facebook groups, Instagram, and the active online community creates a ripple effect,\u201d Kafka explained. \u201cIt builds on their loyal following, drives events, and creates a sense of belonging. That grassroots energy often attracts attention from national brands.\u201d<\/p>\n Recognizing the realities of Regina\u2019s climate, Southland Mall has invested in family-oriented amenities. A new play area, combined with a branch of the Regina Public Library inside the centre, provides valuable year-round spaces for families.<\/p>\n \u201cIn Regina, temperatures swing from plus 40 to minus 40,\u201d Kafka said. \u201cWe wanted to provide a safe enclosed space where families could come together all year round. The library, the play area, and The Spot all serve that purpose. They create an environment where parents and children feel welcome and safe, which in turn drives more visits and dwell time.\u201d<\/p>\n Salthill views these investments as part of a long-term strategy to make Southland more than just a retail centre. \u201cIf we can create reasons for families to come and spend time here, then our tenants benefit from higher sales and more consistent traffic,\u201d Pharasi added.<\/p>\n The property has also benefited from reinvestment by national tenants. Chop Steakhouse & Bar has undertaken a relaunch, with a grand opening set for this fall, while Montana\u2019s has completed a renovation. A new Shoppers Drug Mart is currently under construction, signalling confidence from one of Canada\u2019s largest pharmacy chains.<\/p>\n \u201cWhenever you see national brands doubling down, it\u2019s a sign of strength,\u201d Kafka noted. \u201cAt the same time, we continue to curate our tenant mix by handpicking operators who are innovative and community-minded.\u201d<\/p>\n Pharasi highlighted the strong performance of the shopping centre\u2019s restaurant pads and suggested more announcements are forthcoming. \u201cWe\u2019re in discussions with another national brand for a pad site. While I can\u2019t share details yet, we\u2019re optimistic about continuing to diversify our offering.\u201d<\/p>\n For decades, downtown Regina\u2019s Cornwall Centre has been regarded as the city\u2019s dominant shopping destination, drawing higher-end fashion and national brands that favoured its central location. Retailers such as Sephora and Lululemon have gravitated to the downtown mall, cementing its position as the go-to for elevated categories. Cornwall also historically benefitted from housing Regina\u2019s Hudson\u2019s Bay department store, a once traditional retail anchor for downtowns across the country. That space is now expected to be occupied by an unconfirmed new tenant.<\/p>\n However, shifting habits and concerns about downtown safety are altering the competitive landscape. \u201cIf it\u2019s going to be higher-end fashion, those brands still gravitate toward Cornwall,\u201d Pharasi acknowledged. \u201cBut in recent years, the safety, accessibility and parking in downtown has become an issue.\u201d<\/p>\n Southland Mall\u2019s leadership sees continued opportunity in blending retail, entertainment, and services. Fitness is one category under active consideration, and Salthill\u2019s strategy will continue to prioritize community activation and tenant diversity.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re seeing shoppers who are purposeful,\u201d Kafka said. \u201cThey come in knowing what they want, often after researching online, and they make purchases quickly. That\u2019s why it\u2019s so important for us to curate the right mix of retailers, provide engaging events, and ensure a safe and welcoming environment.\u201d<\/p>\n As Southland Mall celebrates 50 years in Regina, its formula of strong anchors, community partnerships, and consistent reinvestment positions it well for the future. While other centres in the city face vacancy and reinvention challenges, Southland Mall has remained steady by adapting to local needs and fostering a tenant mix that reflects both national strength and grassroots energy.<\/p>\n \u201cOur focus is simple,\u201d Pharasi concluded. \u201cProvide options, support our tenants, and keep improving the experience. That\u2019s how Southland Mall will continue to thrive.\u201d<\/p>\nFamily-Friendly Amenities<\/strong><\/h2>\n
New Tenants and Redevelopment<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Competing with Downtown<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Looking Ahead<\/strong><\/h2>\n
More from Retail Insider: <\/h2>\n<\/div>\n