In the ever-evolving landscape of retail, malls are undergoing a significant transformation, emerging as urban lifestyle destinations that captivate and engage consumers.  According to John Pozoglou, Founder and CEO of FuturePlace, this paradigm shift is not merely cosmetic but involves a comprehensive focus from developers, owners, architects and builders on establishing urban design principles that prioritise diversity, sustainability and a compelling proposition for retail brands catering to the evolving needs of future generations of shoppers.

Planned and delivered effectively, these retail precincts will enhance long-term returns by establishing efficient centre management, improving tenancy mix and engagement, enhancing customer intimacy and experience, and by using unique integrated retail technologies.

To create a successful urban design strategy for a shopping mall demands a collaborative approach, bringing together urban planners and architects to create a space that not only serves commercial purposes but also contributes to the surrounding community in a positive way. This collaborative effort places a primary focus on embracing diversity, sustainability, and a lively ambiance.

Unlike the traditional retail concepts, the contemporary approach to mall design involves the integration of green spaces, play areas and public art. These elements not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also contribute to the well-being of shopping centre visitors and the overall sustainability of the environment. This approach addresses the needs of the current shoppers and also adapts to the changing expectations of the future generations to ensure the long-term success of the shopping centre in the dynamic landscape of retail.

A groundbreaking industry gathering by FuturePlace – Malls of the Future Summit, will showcase the latest advancements, strategies, and insights from some of the biggest and best shopping centre owners, operators and retailers and will revolutionise the way we approach retail real estate assets, including two huge international guests.

Managing large networks of centres and ensuring unique services to diverse audiences
One of the highlights of this conference is the presence of Joanna Fisher, the Chair of the European Council of Shopping Places and CEO of ECE Marketplaces, who will deliver the closing keynote address. Fisher brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, making her session on ‘how to manage large networks of centres to ensure unique services to diverse audiences’ an absolute highlight of the conference.

“We see shopping centres as local marketplaces and social hubs that offer much more than just shopping. We are developing a lot of complementary services around retail including entertainment, gastronomy and especially non-retail offers like medical services,” Joanna Fisher, Chief Executive Officer, ECE Marketplaces (Germany) and Chairwoman, European Council of Shopping Places (ECSP)

The future of malls is multi-dimensional, data driven, and community focused
Complementing the international perspective, Chris Chong, Chief Executive Officer for Retail and Workspace at CapitaLand Investment, will participate in an executive leaders’ panel discussion alongside industry leaders from Charter Hall, Vicinity Centres, Mirvac, and SRL. Chong will also delve into CapitaLand’s portfolio strategy through a compelling case study, providing attendees with valuable insights into navigating the dynamic landscape of modern retail.

The Malls of the Future Summit brings together the brightest minds in the industry to explore the future of retail spaces and shaping the trajectory of malls into vibrant urban hubs that not only meet but exceed the expectations of the discerning consumers of tomorrow.

Key themes include:

• Attracting consumers: Learn how to create places and spaces that offer personalised shopping experiences, entertainment and convenience that encourage people to visit, stay longer, feel connected and return time and time again…and keep your tenants happy
• Asset investment trends: Understand the global, national and regional economic and market trends that are driving asset sales, new developments and investment returns
• Consumer behaviour shifts: Get insights into the latest customer behaviour trends so you can adapt your offerings and appeal to modern tenants…and attract more shoppers
• Technological innovations: Explore the technologies that are making centre operations more efficient, more engaging to audiences and more appealing to tenants
• Retailer-Tenant relationships: Delve into next-gen innovative leasing models and learn how tenant experience management can foster successful partnerships, stability and profitability
• Sustainability and green initiatives: Learn about the latest sustainable design practices, energy-efficiency technologies, waste management and other green initiatives that can contribute to business growth while reducing your carbon footprint
• Data-driven decision making: Hear how data driven insights and analysis generated within shopping centres can help you drive operational efficiencies, more impactful marketing, and improve customer experiences
• Industry collaboration and knowledge sharing: Engage with your peers, industry leaders, and experts to foster innovation and promote industry growth
• Adaptation and resilience: Find the strategies, technologies and partners you need to adapt, become more resilient and future-proof your business in a fast-changing market

Don’t miss the Malls of the Future Summit on 6th March 2024 and be part of the highest profile strategy event for senior shopping centre leaders in Australia. Stay abreast of the latest industry changes, gain valuable insights, and connect with peers. All in one place over one day.

Access the complete program here.

“It was a pleasure to attend the Malls of the Future Summit and share a room with many of our development peers, consultants and retailers sharing thoughts on the new and emerging role of the retail centre in its broader community, and great to see deeper alignment on understanding the customer will be key to success,” said Joanna Russell, General Manager Retail Development, Frasers Property Australia.