Shoppers who love trying the latest skin care or cosmetic lines likely will be delighted with the newest addition to The Waterworks along Freeport Road near Aspinwall.
Ulta Beauty is set to open by late fall in the space that formerly housed a state liquor store, which moved this year to another spot at the shopping complex.
Ulta carries high-end and affordable fragrances, nail products, shower items and hair care.
Founded in 1990, Ulta has grown to nearly 1,400 stores across the country. Locally, there are stores in Monroeville, North Hills and Homestead, along with a small-scale version inside the Harmar Target.
This will be the first full-size Ulta in the Alle-Kiski Valley.
Mall owners JJ Gumberg said the current tenant mix, especially the fashion retailers, provide a “symbiotic setting” for Ulta.
“We are excited to welcome Ulta Beauty to The Waterworks and believe they will be a nice addition to such a dynamic and desirable shopping center,” said Ira Gumberg, chairman and CEO.
The one-stop shop, with a variety of products and price points, has become a hit with people of all ages and income levels.
The Ulta store will span nearly 14,700 square feet in the section of the plaza where Dunham’s Sports and Petco are located. It neighbors a HomeGoods store that opened last year.
Spokeswoman Mara Mrvos said contractors are working on a major renovation of the space, with an expected opening by November.
“The anticipated opening is in time for the holiday season,” Mrvos said.
The Waterworks opened in the 1980s and features Giant Eagle, Marshalls and Barnes & Noble, along with several smaller stores and restaurants.
The largest vacancy that remains is the former Walmart, a plaza anchor for nearly 20 years.
It closed in late 2022 after company officials cited underperforming sales. Mrvos said no information is available on what might fill the 80,000-square-foot space.
Tawnya Panizzi is a TribLive reporter. She joined the Trib in 1997. She can be reached at tpanizzi@triblive.com.