The VF Outlet Center in West Reading, once part of an outlet shopping experience for millions of bargain hunters, will close Dec. 24 after 50 years, writes Andrew Scott for mcall.com.

The outlet center is located in The Knitting Mills, a business park owned by Delaware County developer Equus Capital Partners.

At one time, it was one of America’s largest outlet malls.

In 2015, Equus and the VF Corporation were going to redevelop the 34-acre property, creating offices, stores and restaurants connected by outdoor pathways and landscaping.

Kontoor Brands, Inc. a North Carolina clothing company, then took ownership.

It announced the closure is part of a “strategic evaluation” as it looks to “optimize its retail footprint.”

A storewide liquidation sale is happening through Dec. 24.

The VF Outlet Center opened in 1970, expanding as other retailers came on board.

 “So many memories as a family taking the twice and sometimes three times a year trips from NJ for the sports sales and to shop at VF for clothes and other things,” Jennifer Kern of New Jersey posted on Facebook. “We never missed a sale for 10 years!”

 “This is really sad news,” Kern posted about the upcoming closing.

Read more about the VF Outlet closing at mcall.com.