Mall Empire Builder David Simon Dies at 64

Longtime Simon Property Group chief executive built nation's largest mall empire

Mar. 24, 2026 at 1:00pm

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David Simon, the longtime CEO of Simon Property Group who transformed his family's Indiana real estate business into the country's dominant mall owner, has died at the age of 64 after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2024. Under his leadership for over 30 years, Simon Property Group grew to a portfolio of roughly 250 properties and more than 200 million square feet of retail space, making Simon a central figure in American shopping even as critics predicted malls' demise.

Why it matters

Simon's aggressive acquisition strategy and ability to adapt malls to changing consumer preferences helped Simon Property Group become the largest mall owner in the US, cementing his legacy as a titan of the retail real estate industry. His death marks the end of an era for the company and the broader mall industry.

The details

As CEO, Simon was known as both an intimidating negotiator and a reliable closer, famous for profanity-laced showdowns that often ended in handshakes and long-term partnerships. He spent more than $40 billion buying rivals, shoring up his centers by acquiring troubled retailers like JC Penney and Forever 21, and adding tenants from luxury brands to gyms and restaurants. This strategy helped push the Simon family's fortune to an estimated $11.6 billion and made Simon Property Group the biggest mall owner in the US.

  • David Simon was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2024.
  • David Simon died on Sunday, March 24, 2026.

The players

David Simon

The longtime CEO of Simon Property Group who transformed his family's Indiana real estate business into the country's dominant mall owner.

Eli Simon

David Simon's eldest son, who has been named the new CEO and president of Simon Property Group.

Simon Property Group

The real estate company founded by David Simon's father and uncle, which grew to become the largest mall owner in the US under David Simon's leadership as CEO for over 30 years.

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What’s next

The Simon Property Group board has named David Simon's eldest son, Eli, as the new CEO and president of the company.

The takeaway

David Simon's death marks the end of an era for the mall industry, as he was a central figure who transformed his family's real estate business into the country's dominant mall owner through aggressive acquisition and adaptation strategies. His legacy will continue through the leadership of his son Eli, who has been named the new CEO of Simon Property Group.