The Largest Commercial Investment in Baixada Santista Is About to Transform the Urban and Economic Scenario of Praia Grande, with Thousands of Jobs Expected and a Real Estate Expansion That Promises to Move the Region in an Unprecedented Way.
Praia Grande is about to begin the construction of one of the largest commercial enterprises in the region, the VillaMar Shopping, which promises to boost the local economy and create around 4,000 jobs even during the construction phase.
According to official information, the construction of the new shopping center will start in July 2025.
The enterprise will be built on Avenida Presidente Kennedy, one of the main thoroughfares in the city, next to the Praia Grande City Hall.
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The VillaMar Shopping will occupy a total area of approximately 167,000 square meters, making it one of the largest shopping and leisure centers in Baixada Santista.
The company’s forecast is to open the space in 2027, marking a new phase for the infrastructure and urban development of the municipality.
The expectation of job creation is one of the project’s most highlighted points.
According to the construction company in charge, around 4,000 job openings will be created, covering not only the construction period but also the operation of the mall, which will include stores, restaurants, leisure areas, and various services.
Praia Grande: The Fastest-Growing Municipality in Brazil
In recent years, Praia Grande has drawn attention for its rapid growth and expansion of the construction industry.
Official data from the first quarter of 2025 indicate that the city recorded a 25% increase in the construction sector compared to the same period the previous year.
This expansion reinforces the city’s position as one of the largest investors in infrastructure and urbanization in Brazil.
The new shopping center is a direct reflection of this economic and urban dynamics.
Regional economic experts affirm that projects like VillaMar Shopping not only generate direct and indirect jobs but also boost other sectors such as local commerce, transportation, and tourism.
Social and Economic Impacts of the Shopping Center Construction
Investment in large commercial enterprises usually brings significant changes to the host city.
In the case of Praia Grande, the expectation is that VillaMar Shopping will contribute to the real estate appreciation of the region, attract tourists, and offer a new alternative for leisure and consumption for residents.
Moreover, the creation of thousands of job opportunities helps to reduce local unemployment rates, a constant concern in Brazilian cities today.
According to data from IBGE, the unemployment rate in the state of São Paulo was around 8.5% in the first quarter of 2025, and initiatives like this may help improve this scenario.
During construction, professionals from various fields will be hired, from construction workers, engineers, architects, to security, cleaning, and logistics teams.
Once operational, the diverse job vacancies will include positions in sales, customer service, administration, food service, security, and maintenance, among others.
A New Urban Centrality
The location chosen for VillaMar Shopping, near the City Hall, reinforces the idea that the enterprise will be a new central point in the city.
Avenida Presidente Kennedy is a strategic road that connects different neighborhoods and facilitates access for residents and visitors.
According to urbanism experts, the establishment of large malls in central areas is a trend to invigorate urban life, stimulate commerce, and promote social integration.
Praia Grande, with its rapid urbanization, should seize this opportunity to plan improvements in traffic, public transportation, and local infrastructure, ensuring that growth is sustainable and benefits the entire population.
What to Expect from VillaMar Shopping?
With over 160,000 square meters, VillaMar Shopping will feature space for hundreds of stores, a variety of dining areas, cinemas, event and leisure spaces, in addition to ample parking and modern infrastructure.
According to the responsible company, the project aims to bring renowned national and international brands and promote local commerce, giving space to small and medium entrepreneurs in the region.
The shopping mall model being planned focuses on delivering a complete experience for consumers, combining shopping, entertainment, and services in one place, aligned with current consumption trends that value convenience and leisure.

Perspectives for the Real Estate Market and Tourism
Besides the direct impact on job creation, the arrival of VillaMar Shopping is expected to influence the city’s real estate market.
Properties near the enterprise are likely to appreciate, attracting new residents and investors.
Tourism may also feel the effects of the shopping center.
Praia Grande is a coastal city that welcomes thousands of tourists throughout the year, especially during the high season.
A modern and complete shopping center could serve as an additional attraction for those visiting the region.
Investment and Approval of Construction
Approval for the start of construction was granted in 2024, following a rigorous environmental, urban, and technical evaluation process.
The project underwent various analysis stages to ensure compliance with municipal and state regulations.
As reported by the Praia Grande City Hall, the enterprise is aligned with the city’s strategic planning, which seeks to diversify its economy, increase job opportunities, and improve the quality of life for residents.
What’s Next?
VillaMar Shopping is one of the largest private investments ever made in Praia Grande in recent years.
Its construction and operation promise to be a turning point for local development.
Do you think projects of this size are essential for the growth of cities, or do they create challenges that need to be better discussed by the population? Share your opinion!


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