Zara to open first Pittsburgh-area store

Zoom in: The new Zara location will take over the former Levi’s, Vera Bradley and Banana Republic spaces, as well as part of the upper level of JCPenney at the Ross Park Mall, spokesperson Francesca Callahan tells Axios.

Zoom out: Zara operates over 100 stores in the U.S., including a recent expansion to Charlotte and a new flagship store in San Francisco.

Between the lines: The addition will “anchor a broader redevelopment initiative focused on reimagining the east end” of the Ross Park Mall, according to a press release.

What they’re saying: “The arrival of ZARA — a globally recognized, in-demand brand — represents a major milestone in that strategy,” said Tom Zervas, leasing director of Simon, which operates the mall.

What’s next: Zara is scheduled to open sometime in 2028.