Malls – Bigger the Better!: Unpacking the Success of Large-Scale Shopping Centers in India
The first Mall of India, in Kanpur, was not even 4,00,000 sq.ft, but at that time it seemed to be too big, over the years, “Size Matters” became the mantra, and we have seen how Malls have evolved to a million sq.ft. plus.
In the dynamic landscape of Indian retail, the adage "Big Malls Never Fail" often holds true. Large-scale shopping centers have consistently demonstrated resilience and success, even as the retail environment evolves. But why do bigger malls tend to thrive? The simple answer lies in the undeniable fact that size matters in the mall industry. From attracting global brands to enhancing the customer experience, size plays a crucial role in determining a mall's success. This article delves into the factors contributing to the triumph of big malls in India, supported by real-world examples.
Size Drives a Comprehensive Retail Experience
Large malls offer a one-stop destination for consumers, integrating shopping, dining, entertainment, and leisure under a single roof. A vast expanse allows them to accommodate a diverse range of retailers and services, ensuring visitors find everything they need.
For instance, LuLu Mall in Kochi spans over 1.85 million square feet, housing more than 300 outlets, including a hypermarket, multiplex, ice skating rink, and numerous dining options. Its sheer size ensures it remains Kerala’s premier shopping destination. Likewise, DLF Mall of India - NCR, Sarath City Capital Mall – Hyderabad, and Phoenix MarketCity in Chennai, Bengaluru, Pune, and Mumbai exemplify how bigger malls sustain high footfall and customer engagement through their massive retail mix.
Accessibility & Scale Go Hand-in-Hand
A common misconception is that malls need to be in central business districts (CBDs) to be successful. However, India’s largest malls prove otherwise. Their size enables them to create a self-sustaining ecosystem, making them destinations in themselves.
For example, High Street Phoenix in Chennai is located in Velachery, about 15 km from the CBD, yet thrives as a retail powerhouse. Similarly, DLF Mall of India is 20 km from Connaught Place, and Sarath City Capital Mall is 20 km from Abids—yet both continue to attract massive crowds. The reason? A large mall justifies travel time by offering an unparalleled selection of brands, entertainment, and experiences.
Bigger Malls Mean Bigger Brand Presence
Retailers—especially global brands—prefer larger malls because they provide greater visibility, larger store formats, and increased foot traffic. Large malls can allocate space for flagship stores, enabling international brands to create immersive shopping experiences.
For example, Phoenix MarketCity malls have successfully housed large-format flagship stores for brands like Zara, H&M, and Uniqlo, drawing customers who seek variety and exclusivity. Size allows for zoning, where fashion, electronics, home décor, and entertainment each get dedicated sections, enhancing ease of navigation for shoppers.
Entertainment & Leisure: The Bigger, the Better
Modern consumers seek experiences beyond shopping, and only large malls have the space to provide grand entertainment options. From indoor amusement parks and multiplexes with recliner cinemas to ice skating rinks and gaming zones, size enables malls to create family-friendly entertainment hubs.
For instance, Infiniti Mall in Malad, Mumbai, features an indoor roller coaster, making it not just a shopping destination but an experience-driven attraction. LuLu Mall in Lucknow also integrates extensive entertainment options, proving that bigger malls capture a wider audience through experiential retail.
Large Malls Can Adapt to Digital and Sustainable Trends
With increasing competition from e-commerce, malls must offer digital integration and sustainability initiatives to remain relevant. Large malls have the advantage of resources and space to implement these innovations at scale.
For example, many large malls have integrated:
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Avani Riverside Mall in Howrah stands out as India’s first eco-friendly mall, leveraging energy-efficient infrastructure and earning the Indian Green Building Council's Platinum Award.
Economic & Social Impact of Big Malls
The economic benefits of large malls extend beyond just retail. Their size allows them to become economic catalysts, driving employment, supporting ancillary industries, and boosting tax revenues. Their presence often leads to infrastructure development in surrounding areas, attracting even more commercial activity.
For example, High Street Phoenix in Mumbai, which evolved from a textile mill into a 3.3 million square foot shopping complex, revitalized Lower Parel into a major business and lifestyle district.
Takeaway - The Unshakable Power of Size
In the Indian context, the saying "big malls never fail" largely holds true because size allows malls to offer a superior retail experience, attract top brands, provide unparalleled entertainment, and adapt to changing trends. The larger the mall, the greater its ability to create an ecosystem that ensures repeat visits and long-term success.
As India’s retail sector continues to evolve, mall developers must prioritize scale to stay competitive—because, in retail, now, size isn’t just an advantage, it’s a necessity.
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Founder of Retails And Brand. Head Retail Leasing | Shopping Mall Advisory | Mall Management | Business Development | Franchising | Branding | Marketing & Promo
1 周When it comes to large-scale malls in India, their success is largely tied to strategic location, diverse offerings, and an understanding of consumer behavior. Big malls in India typically never fail due to their ability to cater to a wide range of demographics, from middle-class families to high-end consumers. These malls combine shopping, entertainment, dining, and leisure, creating a one-stop destination. Additionally, with the growing urbanization and rising disposable incomes, the demand for such spaces continues to increase. A well-executed strategy in terms of tenant mix, digital integration, and customer experience ensures that these malls stay relevant and appealing. However, it's important to adapt to changing trends, like incorporating online-to-offline shopping experiences and sustainable practices, to maintain long-term success. The key is not just the size, but the right strategy to capture and engage the target market. So, while big malls in India have historically performed well, adapting to evolving consumer preferences and trends is crucial to ensure sustained success.
Head Manager Operations at Avani Riverside Mall
1 周Susil S Dungarwal Frics Sir sincere gratitude for sharing your insightful article, "Malls – Bigger the Better!: Unpacking the Success of Large-Scale Shopping Centers in India." Your in-depth research and expert analysis provided valuable perspectives on the retail industry. Your thought-provoking ideas and advice are truly appreciated. Thank you again for your contributions to the industry and for sharing your expertise with the LinkedIn community.
In Retail 45 Yrs & Images Group 25 Yrs - indiaretailing, Images Retail, Images BOF, Business of Food, India Food & Fashion Forums, Phygital Retail Convention, Shopping Centres Next, India D2C Summit
1 周The rise of digital integration and sustainability in large malls is another important factor contributing to their ongoing success. Large malls have the infrastructure to adopt technology-driven solutions such as in-mall navigation apps, click-and-collect services, and energy-efficient systems. The focus on sustainability, as seen with the Avani Riverside Mall in Howrah, which earned the Indian Green Building Council's Platinum Award, shows how these malls are adapting to global trends and demands. Your article reinforces the idea that in the competitive retail landscape, size is not just an advantage—it is a fundamental requirement. As consumer expectations continue to evolve and competition from e-commerce intensifies, large malls must continue to innovate and adapt in order to stay relevant. Whether it's offering unique experiences, integrating technology, or contributing to economic growth, the success of large malls—both in India and globally—shows that bigger malls can indeed be better.
In Retail 45 Yrs & Images Group 25 Yrs - indiaretailing, Images Retail, Images BOF, Business of Food, India Food & Fashion Forums, Phygital Retail Convention, Shopping Centres Next, India D2C Summit
1 周When looking beyond India, we can see that the success of large malls is a global phenomenon. The Mall of America in Minnesota, USA, for example, is not just the largest mall in the country but also a premier entertainment destination with attractions like an indoor amusement park, aquarium, and even a mini-golf course. Similarly, Dubai Mall in the UAE, with over 5.9 million square feet of retail space, has become a global symbol of luxury shopping, world-class entertainment, and even an indoor ice rink. These malls are prime examples of how scale, when combined with innovative concepts and diverse offerings, creates iconic spaces that attract millions of visitors each year.