Abraham & Straus (a.k.a. "A & S") opened a freestanding store in Hempstead (village), Long Island in February 1952. It encompassed 3-levels and 225,000 square feet, with free parking for 1,000 autos. Among the store's many features was its upscale Garden Room Restaurant.

Drawing from Federated Department Stores, Incorporated Annual Report 1950

Wayne, New Jersey's WILLOWBROOK MALL was officially dedicated in September 1969. A second stage opened in August 1970. Stern Brothers (a.k.a. Stern's) anchored the addition with a 2-level (225,000 square foot) store.   

Photo from Allied Stores, Corporation Annual Report 1970

Queen's-based Gertz extended their Long Island coverage with a new store in East Massapequa (hamlet). The store, the mall's first operational tenant, welcomed its first shoppers in August 1972.

Photo from Allied Stores, Corporation Annual Report 1973