In which shopping center did the first Disney Store open in 1987?

The first Disney Store opened in Glendale Galleria in Glendale, California, in 1987.

The store introduced Disney’s dedicated retail format, giving shoppers a single destination for licensed toys, clothing, books, collectibles and other character products. It was part of Disney’s effort to control and expand the presentation of its consumer merchandise.

A dedicated store also allowed Disney to create an atmosphere closely connected to its films and theme parks. The concept later spread across the United States and internationally.

The Glendale Galleria location is sometimes confused with the first Disneyland merchandise shop or with the first international Disney Store. Those are separate milestones: Glendale was the location of the first Disney Store itself, while London became the first overseas location in 1990.