In a traditional mall, individuals are entirely enclosed and surrounded by a variety of merchants in a contained and secure shopping environment. These types of malls consists of department stores, stand-alone stores, kiosks, and food courts. Over the years, these malls have developed a new attraction to the eyes of all ages. They have become a place for entertainment. The traditional mall has been afforded movie theaters, large chain restaurants, various skating rinks, merry-go-rounds and trains, and
indoor playgrounds. These types of malls attract individuals from all walks of life and ages that like to not only shop but also enjoy a night at the movies or while shopping, allowing their children to have a blast on the train or playground.
A strip mall is an open area where there are several stores located in that specific area that share a common parking lot. Strip malls are generally located in towns and cities that are very accessible to nearby neighborhoods and other strip malls. These types of malls have stores such as grocery stores, dollar stores, video rental stores, and bookstores. A strip mall could also have a well known large store like Wal-Mart or Target. These are usually called a power center. Also located around the strip malls are fast food restaurants, cafes, and coffee-shops like Starbucks. Strip malls are great for convenience. These types of malls are generally sought out if you need to get everyday necessities such as food, general items, and simple entertainment options.
On the other hand, there is the outlet mall. In the past, an outlet store was attached to a factory or warehouse. At that time, customers were allowed to watch how the products were made and then able to purchase them in the adjoining store. Presently, outlet malls are either in an enclosed environment or an open area outside. The stores are typically name brand stores like Guess, Levis, and Hollister. The outlet type of store have reduced their prices on their products for various reasons such as past season merchandise or overstock in their traditional stores. Presently, outlet malls are very popular due to severals reasons such as accessibility and the economy. These types of malls generally attract all types of individuals at all age levels.
Malls do standardize the way of shopping by bringing together all the wants and need of our society. Malls have been designed to attract consumers in different ways. They serve as a place to purchase products and services that needed and wanted. They also serve as social functions that provide entertainment for consumers of all ages. Malls represent more than shopping. They represent a way of living, and have created an atmosphere that represent our culture and the our way of life.
