Round 1 Considered Times Square Retail Lease
The entertainment chain is eyeing a potential expansion into 1540 Broadway in Times Square.
Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Commercial
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Entertainment center operator Round 1 is exploring a new lease at 1540 Broadway in Times Square. The potential move comes as the company seeks to expand its footprint beyond its current New York City location in Flushing.
Why it matters
A potential lease at this iconic Times Square retail property highlights ongoing shifts in tenant demand for large-scale entertainment spaces. This interest follows significant vacancies left by previous large retailers in the area.
Vornado Realty Trust lists 122,000 square feet available at 1540 Broadway, a building where Forever 21 previously vacated 91,000 square feet. Round 1 currently operates approximately 60 locations in the U.S. and over 100 in Japan.
The players
Round 1
An international entertainment chain known for operating over 100 locations in Japan and approximately 60 in the United States.
Vornado Realty Trust
A major real estate investment trust that manages and markets prime retail properties in high-traffic areas like Times Square.
Pop Mart
A global toy and collectible retailer that recently secured over 7,000 square feet of space at the 1540 Broadway retail site.
The details
The retail space at 1540 Broadway is being marketed by Vornado Realty Trust to replace large-format tenants that have moved out. Round 1, which runs an 80,000 square foot facility in Flushing, is looking to potentially fill a portion of this massive space. Recent leasing activity at the building includes a 7,000 square foot commitment from Pop Mart alongside existing tenants like the Disney Store.
Timeline
August 2026 marked the debut of the Round 1 location in Flushing.
The Home Front
The potential expansion reflects a broader shift toward experiential entertainment in major urban retail corridors. This trend is replacing the traditional large-format fashion retail models that previously dominated commercial real estate in Times Square.
If you are a nearby resident, monitor upcoming construction or load-in notices for 1540 Broadway to stay informed about potential traffic impacts. Consider checking the property developer's official site for future public project announcements.
The takeaway
Large commercial real estate developments like 1540 Broadway continue to evolve as entertainment brands replace legacy retail footprints. Monitor the local neighborhood news for project updates regarding this specific retail conversion.
Further reading
For more on evolving local retail spaces, see our guide to New York City Commercial.
Source note: This article includes information reported by New York Post.
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