Downtown Jamaica has always been a thriving retail district. During the past few years, major banks, including Bank of America, Sterling National Bank, Washington Mutual, and Carver Federal Savings Bank, have opened retail branches in Jamaica, making the Downtown one of the most important retail banking centers in Queens.

Major national chains have also opened new stores along Jamaica Avenue, including The Children's Place and Zale's.

The largest national chain stores in the area are at One Jamaica Center, on the corner of Parsons Boulevard and Jamaica Avenue. The complex, opened in 2002, hosts a popular wheelchair accessible 15-screen, multiplex cinema, as well as Gap and Old Navy stores, and underground parking.

Recent Arrivals

Home Depot

The home improvement superstore opened a 105,000 square-foot facility on the site of the former Long Island Press building at Archer Avenue and 168th Street in 2007. Rooftop parking accommodates more than 250 cars. The project was developed by the Mattone Group of College Point. The new Home Depot has created 300 new jobs.

Marshalls

Downtown Jamaica welcomed the arrival of a 50,000 sf Marshalls store on Jamaica Avenue and 168th Street. The new Marshalls occupies the former Toys R Us space in the old Mays Department Store Building.