What is a Mall? Types, History, and Impact on Society and the Economy
A mall is a North American term for large indoor shopping centers, usually anchored by department stores. The word "mall" originally meant a pedestrian promenade with shops along it (like a boulevard), but it has evolved to become synonymous with large enclosed shopping centers.
Malls can vary greatly in size and style, from small neighborhood strip malls to massive super-regional malls that cover many acres and feature hundreds of stores. Some malls also include entertainment options like movie theaters, arcades, and restaurants, while others focus more on fashion and retail.
In this answer, we will explore what a mall is, its history, types of malls, and their impact on society and the economy.
What is the History of Malls ?
The modern shopping mall as we know it today has its roots in the early 20th century, when department stores began to expand beyond city centers and open branches in suburban areas. These stores were often surrounded by parking lots and eventually evolved into enclosed malls with multiple anchors like JCPenney and Sears.
The first true mall was the Southdale Center in Edina, Minnesota, which opened in 1956. Developed by the Dayton-Hudson Corporation (now Target Corporation), it featured a revolutionary layout with a central courtyard, climate-controlled corridors, and ample parking. The success of Southdale Center inspired other developers to build similar malls across the United States.
In the 1970s and 1980s, malls became even more popular as suburbanization grew and middle-class Americans had more disposable income to spend on consumer goods. This period saw the rise of "super-regional" malls like the Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, which boasted over 520 stores and attractions like an amusement park and an aquarium.
What are the Types of Malls ?
There are several types of malls, each with its own unique characteristics and features:
1. Neighborhood Malls: These small to medium-sized malls are typically found in suburban areas and feature a mix of local and national retailers. They often have a grocery store or drugstore as an anchor tenant.
2. Community Malls: These malls serve smaller communities and are usually anchored by a single department store. They may have fewer dining and entertainment options than larger malls.
3. Regional Malls: These malls serve larger regions and feature multiple department stores, along with a variety of specialty retailers and restaurants. They can be found in both suburban and urban areas.
4. Super-Regional Malls: These massive malls cover large areas and feature hundreds of stores, as well as entertainment options like movie theaters and amusement parks. They are often located near major cities or tourist destinations.
5. Lifestyle Centers: These upscale malls focus on fashion and dining experiences rather than traditional retail. They may have limited parking and a more open layout to create a "town center" feel.
6. Factory Outlet Malls: These malls specialize in discounted prices for factory-second or surplus merchandise. They often feature a mix of local and national retailers.
7. Themed Malls: These malls have a specific theme, such as an indoor ski resort or a tropical paradise, and may include attractions like water parks or roller coasters.
What is the Impact of Malls on Society and the Economy ?
Malls have had both positive and negative impacts on society and the economy:
Positive impacts:
1. Job creation: Malls provide employment opportunities for millions of people in retail, food service, and other industries.
2. Tax revenue: Malls generate significant tax revenue for local governments, which can be used to fund public services and infrastructure projects.
3. Community hubs: Many malls serve as community gathering places, hosting events like concerts, festivals, and charity drives.
4. Accessibility: Malls offer a convenient one-stop shopping experience for consumers, especially in areas with limited public transportation options.
Negative impacts:
1. Suburbanization: The rise of malls contributed to the growth of suburbanization, which can lead to urban sprawl and decreased density in city centers.
2. Environmental impact: Malls require significant energy and resources to operate, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and waste production.
3. Competition: The proliferation of malls has led to increased competition for small businesses and local retailers, who may struggle to compete with larger chain stores.
4. Social isolation: Some critics argue that malls can contribute to social isolation by encouraging people to stay indoors and avoid interacting with their communities.
In conclusion, malls have had a profound impact on society and the economy since their inception in the mid-20th century. While they offer many benefits like job creation and convenience, they also have drawbacks like environmental impact and competition for small businesses. As retail continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how malls adapt and change to meet the needs of consumers in the future.
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