Defiance is the commercial hub of the six-county Northwest Ohio area. Whether you’re on the hunt for that perfect gift or are a bargain shopper tracking down the great deals, Defiance offers shopping experiences that are worthy of sampling by visitors and newcomers alike. Family-owned shops, plazas and a large mall complex will satisfy any shopping need.

In historic downtown Defiance there are more than 46 stores and offices to serve you. They offer personalized service and old-fashioned friendliness. Specialty stores, both new and long-established, offer party supplies, sporting goods, unique gifts and collectibles, jewelry, photo supplies, professional services, and more. Downtown Defiance is also home to many fine family-owned restaurants.

The Northtowne Mall, located on Defiance’s north side, features not only a shopping mall, but also over 100 other surrounding businesses and dining establishments, and is a major “one-stop” shopping and service center. The Northtowne Mall has over 600,000 square feet of shopping space and features over 40 stores, including JCPenney, Elder Beerman and Sears. There is also an excellent food court and a nine-screen movie theater.

Another area for shopping on Defiance’s east side offers over 30 more retail and dining outlets.

Defiance Institutions Provide a Progressive Community

Five solid financial institutions in the community promote development and support the economic well-being of Defiance. Toledo Edison and American Electric Power provide abundant electrical service; Ohio Gas Company supplies ample natural gas; and Sprint provides fiber-optic core service to the community. The area is served by The Crescent-News, a Sunday through Friday regional newspaper with a circulation of 18,000; DCTV (Channel 5), the local education, government and public-access channel; and three Clear Channel radio stations, WONW-AM, WDFM-FM and WZOM-FM.

The Defiance city government and the Defiance Area Chamber of Commerce have a close working relationship. One city official describes the Chamber as “a catalyst for growth and economic development.” Another says the Chamber “has proven to be inventive, progressive and diligent in promoting Defiance and keeping Defiance not only a great place to live, but also a great place to work. The strong partnership between the City and the Chamber benefits everyone in the city.”