What type of shopping center is characterized by a large square footage and primarily national chain stores?

The correct answer is that a regional center is characterized by a large square footage and primarily national chain stores. Regional centers serve as major retail hubs within a particular area and typically feature a broad variety of stores, including department stores, discount retailers, and a diverse range of national chain outlets.

Community centers, while serving a larger area than neighborhood centers, usually have a smaller footprint and a mix of local businesses alongside a few national brands. Neighborhood centers are even smaller and focus primarily on convenience-oriented retailers for nearby residents. Specialty centers, on the other hand, focus on niche markets and usually contain stores that offer specific goods or services rather than a wide range of national chains.

In summary, the key characteristics of regional centers include their extensive size and the presence of major national chain stores, making them the optimal choice for this question.