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Opinion

PERSONAL COMMENTARIES OF PLACEMAKING EXPERTS

“We do expect the same developments like in China by late spring or beginning of summer at our malls in Central Eastern Europe and in Turkey.”

“The corona pandemic reveals and emphasizes, among others, the very simple basic fact which is crucial to a healthy business survival illustrated by the dependency of all different business parties on each other’s survival.”

“After the first soft measures in early March, a curfew restriction was imposed in Hungary from March 28 until April 11. Together with the compulsory closing of all non-food shops at 3:00 PM this has had a huge impact on the retail sector.”

“Getting out of our comfort zones also makes us stronger in the long run, activating our values ​​and pursuing both personal and professional purpose should be our priority.”

“Once this pandemic is over, our customers will be hungry for all that they were deprived of during the crisis. Brands and landlords need to be prepared to show that online shopping is just a substitute for the great experience you have while visiting shopping centers.”

“Gathering spaces will be even more important than they were beforebecause we can only truly value something, like our freedom to meet, when we’ve had it taken away. And shopping centers and malls are gathering spaces.”

“There is no need to look for culprits or point out those industries or competitors who might not be affected in the same way.”

“The outlet category has always matured during decades of upheaval, and we have routinely stated that ‘outlets are good in good times and great in terrible times.’ 2020 may well test that theory.”

2019 was a real game-changing year for the region’s retail sector with quickly increasing turn overs, new market openings as well as first larger refurbishments. Unfortunately, the current crisis is reshuffling the entire deck.

SAFE Shopping Centers have issued the guide “COVID 19 and Considerations for Shopping Centers and Retail Spaces” to support the industry (FREE DOWNLOAD). It is designed to give guidance on preparations and consideration for the Covid-19 outbreak, covering essential functions and hands-on tips for mall operations.

“Retailers and developers who are able to identify ways to get closer to and be supportive of clients and society during this time of crisis will surely be the winners.”

It almost reminds one of the 1993 film “Groundhog Day”. The only difference is that Dr. Will, together with his management consultancy Ecostra, has only employed the recurring, annual use of mathematical calculations since 2011, with the purpose of creating a body of evidence, based on statistical methods, that would allow for a ranking of the best shopping centers in Germany to be drawn up.