Things are changing in Union City. And its more than a change in name. Known for years as Shannon Mall, the new Union Station Atlanta is positioned to undergo a transformation that will match the changes all over south Fulton County. The transformation along the Ga. Highway 138 corridor will include new theaters and many new commercial ventures.

“The name change to Union Station Atlanta reflects the strong local heritage of the community,” said Lee Najjar, President, Shannon Mall Investments, LLC. “Along with the heavy leasing activity and improvements, Union Station Atlanta is becoming the entertainment and retail center for the region.”

Najjar said new stores that have opened this year include Simply Fashion, Unica, Kissable Lips Cosmetics, Blue Mountain Café, Eve's Shoes, Buns, Impressive Designs, Kat's Tats, Ray's of Chicago, and Gift Corner. Additional new deals that have been signed and will be opening in the fourth quarter of this year include Fusion Spa, Union Station Furniture, Bare Feet, MGR Jewelry & Watch Repair, Bananas, Atlanta Gold, Treats and Sweets, Lulin's Boutique and Clams, Fish & Shrimp.

“Leasing activity has been intense,” says Ed Seikus, Vice President of Development for shopping center management firm Jones Lang LaSalle. “More than 50,000 square feet of space has been leased since the beginning of the year, which represents 20 new deals. Additional redevelopment plans include a 14-screen cinema, planned to open in 2008, along with big box retail and additional restaurants.”

For Union Station Atlanta General Manager David Long the new look in Union City could not be better. It is a look toward the future, he said.

“All of these exciting changes have completely transformed the energy of the property,” said Long. “We are truly positioned now to serve the needs of this fast growing region. We are committed to offering an entertaining mix of restaurants, stores and services that meet the needs of our community for a long time to come.”