Malls are called Westfield because the name is directly derived from "Westfield Place," the very first shopping centre developed by the Westfield Corporation. This inaugural development opened in July 1959 in Blacktown, Australia, and its name reflects both its geographical position and its original land use.
The Origin Story of the Westfield Name
The name "Westfield" is a combination of two elements that signify its initial location and environment:
- "West": This part of the name refers to its location in West-Sydney, specifically the suburb of Blacktown, where the first centre was established.
- "Field": This component indicates that the development was built on subdivided farmland. The land on which "Westfield Place" was constructed was previously agricultural land.
This thoughtful naming convention highlighted the company's roots and the context of its groundbreaking first project.
Key Milestones and Founders
The Westfield Corporation, which grew to become a global leader in retail property, was founded by John Saunders and Frank Lowy. Their vision laid the foundation for the vast network of shopping centres known worldwide today.
Here are some key facts about the initial Westfield development:
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| First Development | Westfield Place |
| Opening Date | July 1959 |
| Location | Blacktown, West-Sydney, Australia |
| Origin of Name | "West" from West-Sydney, "Field" from subdivided farmland |
| Founders | John Saunders and Frank Lowy |
The Evolution of a Global Brand
From its humble beginnings in West-Sydney, the Westfield name expanded rapidly, becoming synonymous with large, modern shopping centres across Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, and other parts of the world. The careful selection of its initial name, reflecting its origins, stuck as the brand grew into the globally recognized entity known as Westfield Corporation.
