Trump Tower lands first retail tenant more than 17 years after opening

May 29, 2026 - 06:54

More than 17 years after its completion, Trump Tower has secured its first retail tenant, ending a long stretch of vacancy that had become a symbol of the building's struggles. The tower, which opened in 2009, has faced persistent challenges in attracting businesses to its ground-floor commercial space. Industry observers point to the building's association with former President Donald Trump as a major factor, with his name on the facade deterring many prospective retailers.

The empty storefronts stood in stark contrast to the bustling commercial corridors of other major towers in the city. Over the years, the property's management cycled through various leasing agents and slashed asking rents, but the stigma attached to the address proved difficult to overcome. Political controversies and shifting consumer sentiment made potential tenants wary of being linked to the Trump brand.

The new tenant, a local business known for its upscale offerings, has agreed to a long-term lease. Neither the tenant's name nor the specific terms of the deal have been disclosed. Real estate experts say the lease could signal a slow thaw in the market for properties tied to the Trump name, though they caution that one deal does not erase years of difficulty. The building's owners are now hoping the arrival of this first retailer will pave the way for additional tenants, finally filling the empty spaces that have haunted the tower since its opening.