What is a Mall?
A mall, also known as a shopping center, is a large, enclosed retail space comprising multiple outlets and services. Typically, malls feature a variety of stores—including department stores, specialty shops, and food courts—interconnected by a central area or walkways, allowing consumers to walk comfortably from one store to another. Many malls also offer entertainment options such as movie theaters, play zones for kids, and sometimes even amusement rides.
Key Features of a Mall:
- Anchored Stores: Larger department stores that serve as the foundational tenants of the mall.
- Retail Mix: A diverse array of retail stores differentiated by sector, including fashion, electronics, home goods, and beauty products.
- Dining Options: Food courts and standalone restaurants ranging from fast food to fine dining.
- Entertainment Facilities: Multiplex cinemas, gaming zones, and event spaces.
Examples
- Mall of America® (Bloomington, Minnesota): It is the largest mall in the United States, housing more than 500 stores, a theme park, an aquarium, and numerous dining options.
- Westfield Stratford City (London, UK): A modern shopping center featuring over 250 shops, multiple dining experiences, luxury and budget retail options, and a prominent cineplex.
- Dubai Mall (Dubai, UAE): The world’s largest shopping mall by total area, offering over 1,200 retail outlets, an indoor theme park, an aquarium, and a vast range of luxury dining choices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What differentiates a mall from other shopping complexes?
A mall is typically characterized by its enclosed nature, offering a climate-controlled environment. Unlike open-air shopping centers, malls provide protection from adverse weather conditions, contributing to a more comfortable shopping experience.
How do malls impact local economies?
Malls contribute significantly to local economies through job creation, tourism, and increased consumer spending. They also attract additional business investments in the surrounding area.
How has the rise of e-commerce affected malls?
While e-commerce has influenced traditional retail by shifting some consumer purchases online, many malls have adapted by offering experiential retail where services, dining, and entertainment complement traditional shopping.
What is an “anchor store” in a mall?
An anchor store is usually one of the largest stores in a mall, often a well-known department store or grocery store, designed to attract a high volume of shoppers who may visit other smaller stores as well.
Related Terms
- Retail Space: The total area available or occupied by retail businesses.
- Mixed-Use Development: Developments that combine residential, commercial, cultural, or institutional uses integrated into one project.
- Tenant Mix: The assortment of independently operated retail businesses occupying a retail space such as a mall.
- Gross Leasable Area (GLA): The total floor area designed for occupancy and exclusive use of tenants.
Online Resources
- International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC)
- National Retail Federation (NRF)
- U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)
References
- LaSalle, James. “Malls and the American Economy.” Journal of Retail & Consumer Services, 2015.
- Patterson, Charles. “The Evolution of Modern Malls.” Real Estate Review, 2018.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
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“Shopping, Place and Identity” by Peter Jackson A comprehensive look at the relationship between shopping malls, consumer behavior, and wider social changes.
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“Malls and Department Stores (Let’s Explore Marketplaces)” by Grace Hansen An accessible introduction for younger readers that discusses the intricacies of shopping malls and department stores.
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“Built for Growth: Expanding Jobs and Opportunity in America’s Urban Centers” by Bill C. Fulton This book delves into urban development, including retail expansion through malls.
