Razer, the renowned gaming hardware manufacturer, has permanently closed its downtown San Francisco store after nine years of operation, citing a significant decline in foot traffic. The store, located in the Westfield San Francisco Centre mall, ceased operations on March 31, 2025.
A Hub for Gamers
Established in 2016, the RazerStore was envisioned as a central hub for gaming enthusiasts. It offered customers the opportunity to experience Razer’s latest products firsthand and hosted various gaming tournaments and events. This initiative aimed to foster a community among gamers and provide an interactive retail experience.
Declining Foot Traffic and Broader Challenges
The closure of the RazerStore reflects broader challenges faced by retailers in downtown San Francisco. The Westfield San Francisco Centre mall, where the store was located, has experienced a series of tenant departures due to declining foot traffic, a trend exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Factors contributing to this decline include increased remote work practices, economic uncertainties in the tech sector, and concerns about safety in the downtown area.
Impact on the Mall
The departure of Razer adds to a growing list of retailers exiting the Westfield San Francisco Centre. Luxury brands such as Rolex, Panerai, IWC Schaffhausen, and Bucherer have also recently closed their stores in the mall. These closures come in the wake of anchor tenants like Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s vacating their substantial retail spaces, significantly impacting the mall’s viability.
Future Outlook
The ongoing exodus of retailers from the Westfield San Francisco Centre underscores the challenges facing urban malls in adapting to changing consumer behaviors and economic conditions. While some brands are relocating to other areas within the city, the future of the mall remains uncertain as it grapples with decreased patronage and financial instability.
Razer’s decision to close its San Francisco store highlights the shifting landscape of retail, particularly for businesses that rely heavily on in-person interactions and community engagement. As the company continues to innovate in the gaming hardware sector, it may explore alternative strategies to connect with its customer base in the evolving market environment.
