Malls

Malls are shopping centers that house many retailers under a single common area, often anchored by large department stores or supermarkets. They typically provide shared amenities such as escalators, food courts, cinemas, and events, and are designed to attract foot traffic and facilitate one-stop shopping and social activity.

Origin in the United States in the mid-20th century saw the rise of enclosed regional malls to serve growing suburban populations. Victor Gruen’s early proposals envisioned community-centered spaces; Southdale Center, opened in 1962, is commonly cited as the first fully enclosed mall. Malls expanded to suburban regions, evolving into regional and super-regional destinations, and later diversifying into lifestyle centers and power centers. Global expansion followed, with development in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Layout features typical anchor tenants at the ends of wings, smaller specialty stores in between, central concourses or atria, and common areas such as food courts and cinemas, usually paired with parking or transit access. Mall management covers leasing, operations, security, and marketing. In recent years many malls have added experiential elements and services such as entertainment, fitness, or co-working spaces to respond to changing consumer habits.

Economic and social role: malls serve as centers of retail activity, employment, and sometimes community events. They influence local commerce, urban planning, and consumer behavior, and can shape the vitality of surrounding areas. Trends include competition from e-commerce, shifts toward mixed-use redevelopment, and sustainability considerations. Some malls are being transformed into multi-use complexes that incorporate housing, offices, or civic spaces.