Watching the hit Netflix show “Stranger Things” might make you yearn for something you likely forgot that you actually miss. While the indoor shopping mall is perceived as being antiquated or even dead to consumers, seeing one so well portrayed in this iconic 80s-era TV show might make you wonder if the shopping mall still has a place and purpose in our growing online world.
The truth is that malls aren’t dead. They’re just evolving. In fact, you might be surprised to note that many vacated shopping malls are being torn down and replaced…with new shopping malls. This is likely because71 percent of consumers spend more when shopping in person than they do online. As a result, different types of malls are emerging across America. These are the top five types of shopping malls you should be aware of going into 2026:
1. Experiential & Entertainment-themed Malls
These malls put a strong emphasis on attractions such as indoor amusement parks and theaters as well as interactive technologies. This type of mall strives to provide an immersive social event that can’t be replicated online. As a result, malls that provide the experiential treatment can turn a shopping event into something that can last hours, not minutes.
2. Mixed-Use Developments
This type of mall combines retail with office, residential, entertainment and hospitality spaces. The purpose here is to create a strong sense of community that can attract a diverse range of shoppers and visitors. The near constant foot traffic from residents and workers presents a lively atmosphere that all but assures foot traffic for your commercial property.
3. Phygital Retail Malls
What is “phygital”? Funny you should ask. This type of mall integrates state-of-the-art technology with the shopping experience. These outlets will typically involve AR “try-on” mirrors and other highly interactive displays. Applications like these help to bridge the gap between online convenience and in-store “discovery.”
4. Outlet Centers
This type of mall offers big-name brands at discounted prices. It makes for a popular shopping space for those on a tight budget or for savvy shoppers who are simply looking to save a little money. Because the world always loves a great deal, these types of malls will always be a strong performer in the marketplace.
5. Sustainable & Purpose-Driven Malls
This type of mall tends to attract eco-aware customers. These shopping spaces put a focus on energy efficiency and waste-reduction programs. Sustainable and purpose-driven malls will likely have vehicle charging stations and other like-minded products and services available for those customers looking to get green and stay green.
These are just a few of the shopping mall types out there; any one of them can be a potentially wise investment for CRE pros. To learn more about a software solution that can help you organize your property data, and track the progress of your market research related projects, request a demo of Quarem today.
Last Updated: March 9, 2026
