If you’re a young child growing up in America in the 80s, chances have you been spent lots of time at your local shopping center. It wasn’t merely a place to look, but a hub of modern civilization where you are able to do your shopping, catch a video, and spend some time with your friends. Malls were often seen as sort of privatized public square for youths to build community and were firmly established in popular culture by films like Fast Times at Ridgemont High and Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure. https://time.com/3805133/flashback-to-the-timeless-malls-of-the-1980s/
Back then, people could comparison shop in one place, do their banking, grab a bite to eat and even manage to get thier hair cut without ever having to leave the comfort of their air conditioned environment. It had been also a place to see the latest fashion trends and even try on clothes so you’d know how they’d look in real life. And if you weren’t feeling the shopping bug, there clearly was always Pac-Man or a video game arcade to keep you entertained while your parents went from store to store.
And if you’re fortunate, your local mall might have had an outdoor stage for live music and special events. While you will find still plenty of individuals that go to the mall for each one of these reasons, it’s no secret that they are slowly disappearing. Actually, some experts claim that malls will completely disappear within a decade. But others disagree. For example, it’s been reported that Americans is likely to be reverting for their roots and buying more personally rather than online. This might end up being the case, but it’s certainly not just a death sentence for the mall.
For now, there are a few malls that are building a comeback, but they’re accepting a different form than what we might remember from the past. Instead of massive indoor spaces with a number of stores and restaurants, the newer malls tend to be more like open-air centers that feature parks and ample seating for those that prefer to socialize outdoors. And they’re also emphasizing those items that shoppers can’t easily buy online, such as food, movies, and clothing.
The new malls are also embracing technology by using mobile apps allowing customers to track their order and make changes as needed. And they’re also working to generate experiences for shoppers that can’t be replicated on a computer screen, such as concerts and activities that’ll make them feel more connected to these products they’re buying.
But no real matter what, there’s without doubt that the mall is definitely an iconic part of American history. And while we may think it’s a shame to see them go, there’s no denying which they serve an essential purpose inside our society and will continue to do so for years to come. What do you consider? Share your ideas on Facebook! Image credits: Michael Galinsky / Flickr.
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