How Can we Learn from the Pandemic to Design Healthier Shopping Malls?

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly impacted consumer shopping behavior and dramatically influenced how and where people shop. People shifted to prefer shopping online or at an outdoor mall to shopping indoors during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is still a strong preference for shopping in person as people highly value physically evaluating their purchases. Successful shopping districts pivoted to provide outdoor shopping and dining spaces. Through a survey of shoppers in the Tucson area, data shows that some aspects of a shopping mall can strongly influence where consumers ultimately decide to shop. Ample green space and shade, fascinating art features, and overall suitability are all things that people consciously consider during their shopping experience. This study found that elements such as green space can make an area more comfortable, and outdoor public spaces are less likely to transmit disease than indoor spaces. This data should be a significant consideration for the future planning and development of shopping malls. Incorporating outdoor shopping elements can provide a more enjoyable shopping experience and a healthier shopping environment.