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15 Mall Stores That Had Surprisingly Dark Backstories

These 15 seemingly cheerful mall staples hid histories that were far darker than their shiny storefronts suggested.

  • Chris Graciano
  • 3 min read
15 Mall Stores That Had Surprisingly Dark Backstories
Michael Weidemann on Unsplash

Malls were once the heart of American shopping. They were full of stores that seemed harmless and fun. However, some retailers had unsettling histories. Here are 15 mall stores whose backstories might make you look at your childhood hangouts a little differently.

1. Abercrombie & Fitch

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Known for shirtless models and dimly lit stores, Abercrombie & Fitch was once hit with accusations of discriminatory hiring and exclusionary practices. Its CEO openly admitted they targeted only “cool kids,” leaving many feeling unwelcome.

2. Spencer’s Gifts

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This novelty store seemed like harmless fun with gag gifts and lava lamps, but it has long faced criticism for selling adult items to young teens. Many malls debated banning it entirely.

3. Hot Topic

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The dark, edgy chain thrived on teen rebellion, but its early years were tied to moral panic. Parents and schools accused it of glorifying disturbing imagery and even promoting violence.

4. Build-A-Bear Workshop

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Despite its cozy, family-friendly vibe, Build-A-Bear made headlines for poor labor conditions among overseas manufacturers. Critics accused the brand of producing smiles at the expense of underpaid factory workers.

5. Claire’s

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Claire’s was every tween’s dream for earrings and sparkly accessories, but the brand has been investigated for unsafe products. Multiple reports linked their cheap jewelry to harmful materials like asbestos and lead.

6. Rainforest Café

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This whimsical, jungle-themed restaurant seemed magical to kids, but environmental activists criticized it for hypocrisy. While it celebrated wildlife, the chain faced backlash for wasteful practices and unsustainable sourcing.

7. Forever 21

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The trendy, budget-friendly clothing store masked a history of labor violations. Reports surfaced of sweatshops and underpaid workers producing their “fast fashion” goods.

8. Sharper Image

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Sharper Image sold futuristic gadgets that wowed mall-goers, but it became infamous for dangerous products. Its ionic air purifiers were linked to ozone emissions and health hazards.

9. Victoria’s Secret

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This lingerie giant seemed glamorous, but behind the pink walls were numerous scandals. From toxic workplace allegations to ties with shady financial figures, the brand’s reputation took repeated hits. 

10. The Disney Store

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While Disney is synonymous with childhood magic, the brand faced criticism for overseas labor practices. Reports of low-wage factory work clashed with the company’s wholesome image. 

11. Wet Seal

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This trendy teen retailer collapsed under financial troubles, but its downfall also revealed a history of discrimination lawsuits. Employees alleged unfair treatment and a toxic work environment.

12. KayBee Toys

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Once the ultimate toy destination, KayBee Toys eventually became linked with bankruptcy scandals and poor business ethics. Many former employees described sudden closures and mass layoffs.

13. Sam Goody

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This music retailer seemed harmless, but it became notorious for price-gouging and shady business practices. As the digital era rose, customers realized they’d been overpaying for years.

14. Hollister

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A sibling to Abercrombie, Hollister projected a carefree beach vibe but shared its exclusionary reputation. Critics slammed the brand for dark stores, suggestive marketing, and poor diversity.

15. Gymboree

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This children’s clothing brand was beloved by parents, but its financial mismanagement and repeated bankruptcies led to store closures nationwide. Behind the cheerful colors was a company in constant crisis.

Written by: Chris Graciano

Chris has always had a vivid imagination, turning childhood daydreams into short stories and later, scripts for films. His passion for storytelling eventually led him to content writing, where he’s spent over four years blending creativity with a practical approach. Outside of work, Chris enjoys rewatching favorites like How I Met Your Mother and The Office, and you’ll often find him in the kitchen cooking or perfecting his coffee brew.

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