Shopping malls need to map out ‘new normal’ strategies

CEBU, Philippines — Shopping mall operators may have to prepare strategies for the ‘new normal’ shopping behavior of consumers after the stay-home protocol will be lifted, warned a Cebu-based commercial leasing broker.

Likewise, retailers who are maintaining spaces in shopping malls may also need to review their business strategies as the next opening season—post COVID-19 will have a “new set” of consumers, said leasing broker for commercial spaces Eppie Acusar.

“The trend will now be going back to basics. Clothing, shoes, sports, specialty stores, will demand smaller spaces,” explained Acusar, adding that malls too have to brace for change of spaces demand from tenants, and maybe entry of new concept stores offering basic necessities with twists.

Both retailers and shopping mall operators should review their income efficiency to sustain operation.

“For non essential retail concepts, which have dominated occupancy in most malls, there will be drastic change as customer habits will be shifted to on line businesses,” warned Acusar.

While people still buy non-essential luxury goods, like clothing, shoes, vanity products, among others, most brands are now making their massive presence online. And because of the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) people are learning to shop online, across ages.

Food and entertainment business will have changes in set up too. She said because of health and sanitation high consciousness , customers would be more inclined adapt social distancing . Fastfood outlets may be forced to strengthen their take out and drive thru options.

These are just glimpses of the “new normal” in the retail behavior post COVID-19, that retailers and shopping mall operators alike should take into consideration.

Plans should be made by now, she stressed. Otherwise, business continuity is at stake if systems will not be improved to fit with the new world—post covid-19.