EVOLUTION OF THE SHOPPING MALL

  Many smaller shopping centres that require big-name retailers and lack the benefit of being attached to large tourist areas are having to revisit their business plans. Many are opting to add condominium towers, more restaurants and more entertainment offerings, such as amusement parks, fitness centres, video arcades, movie theatres and escape rooms, turning shopping specific locations into family friendly places to pass the time. With residential properties built in, they hope to attract new visitors.      With consumers feeling the pinch of higher interest rates and rising costs, Canadians have increasingly been turning to discount retailers and wholesalers  to cut back on their spending. Much of the new development in the suburbs will likely include lower-price retailers such as Costco, Walmart and Giant Tiger.