I know that the idea of "going to the mall" has changed a lot over the years. What used to be the thing to do as a teen in Michigan has become more of an afterthought.

However, despite this shift in how people shop and spend their time, Meridian Mall in Okemos is getting some new life.

New Store Coming to Meridian Mall in June 2026

The most recent addition to Meridian Mall will soon be a store called BoxLunch. They plan on opening sometime in June 2026.

Meridian Mall in Okemos, this is one of the entrances to the mall
Google Maps
loading...

BoxLunch is a chain store that sells a myriad of items all related to pop culture. Clothes, accessories, home goods, and decor featuring some of the biggest fandoms and pop culture icons alike. Think Harry Potter, Jurassic Park, Powerpuff Girls, and basically anything that Disney makes.

As far as mall growth goes, I would love to see more!

Could Meridian Mall Add Even More Stores?

It feels like physical media and in-person shopping are making a comeback, and I would love to see that kind of resurgence at the Meridian Mall in Okemos. I think a few new businesses would round that out very nicely.

Stores Okemos Still Needs at Meridian Mall

BoxLunch is one of the stores I'd hoped would make their way to Lansing one day, and my dreams have been answered. But what about some other businesses? Here are some stores and restaurants that I think should open a location at the Meridian Mall:

IKEA

IKEA
Photo by Adam Kolmacka on Unsplash
loading...

Okay, now hear me out. I know Michigan already has one in Canton, but Lansing is such a great location for those who are headed up north. Plus, all the Swedish meatballs you could want.

The Cheesecake Factory

The Cheesecake Factory
loading...

There's a reason why this place is so popular. And the menu is huge!

Lush

Lush products Tea Tree Water toner and Enzymion moisturizer
Kristen Matthews TSM Lansing
loading...

This store sells all kinds of natural and organic body products, from makeup and perfume to bath bombs and body scrub.

Michigan's First Mall: The Northland Center, Southfield

11 Lessons Learned Growing Up in 'Small-Town,' Michigan

Growing up in a small Michigan town as a Gen Xer was basically “Survivor: Great Lakes Edition.” Your playgrounds were fields, lakes, and questionable rope swings. You didn’t need gadgets — just a bike, a curfew, and parents whose only rule was “be home when it’s dark.” Here are 11 things you only learn growing up that way.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

25 Best Small Cities in Michigan to Start a Business

Looking to start a business? New research from the personal finance website WalletHub shows that these are the 25 best small cities in Michigan to do it.

Gallery Credit: JR

More From 1240 The Ticket