Let’s go to the mall | Group Tour Magazine Blog
Let’s go to the mall | Group Tour Magazine Blog
Let’s go to the mall
This blog dishes on what malls are doing to attract grown-up shoppers and group tours
By Amanda Black
I had the chance to visit a new store this weekend. It’s designed for teens, but I thought it would be fun to shop the iPhone accessories, brightly colored decor and other swag.
Boy was I wrong. The loud music, pods of teenagers and the narrow aisles made me feel a mix of old and annoyed. And plus, I don’t want to spend my hard-earned money on stuff I don’t really need or want. It was a lot different than the days of cruising the mall with some cash handed off from my parents.
My favorite store was next door, and it was an oasis of grown-up calm. Michael Bublé was playing on the radio, and I was able to shop for tablecloths, sea salted chocolate bars and couscous in peace.
If you think the mall is only the domain of teenagers shopping for gewgaws and skinny jeans, you should take a closer look at what retail corporations are doing for groups. Many malls offer value-plus experiences that go way beyond wandering into a few stores.
For instance, Westfield San Francisco Centre offers fashion shows, personal shopping seminars, high-value coupon books and group dining under the dome—an architectural marvel and backdrop to laser-light shows.
By Amanda Black
I had the chance to visit a new store this weekend. It’s designed for teens, but I thought it would be fun to shop the iPhone accessories, brightly colored decor and other swag.
Boy was I wrong. The loud music, pods of teenagers and the narrow aisles made me feel a mix of old and annoyed. And plus, I don’t want to spend my hard-earned money on stuff I don’t really need or want. It was a lot different than the days of cruising the mall with some cash handed off from my parents.
My favorite store was next door, and it was an oasis of grown-up calm. Michael Bublé was playing on the radio, and I was able to shop for tablecloths, sea salted chocolate bars and couscous in peace.
If you think the mall is only the domain of teenagers shopping for gewgaws and skinny jeans, you should take a closer look at what retail corporations are doing for groups. Many malls offer value-plus experiences that go way beyond wandering into a few stores.
For instance, Westfield San Francisco Centre offers fashion shows, personal shopping seminars, high-value coupon books and group dining under the dome—an architectural marvel and backdrop to laser-light shows.
| The Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn., expands its offerings far beyond just shopping and dining. | ||
And what discussion of malls is complete without talking about the two giants? The Mall of America in Bloomington, Minn., and Alberta’s West Edmonton Mall have gone far beyond retail with special events, attractions and fun all under one very big roof. Both offer group programs that will take them behind the scenes from the front of fashion, along with exclusive coupons and meet-and-greets.
All of the outlet centers—Tanger and Premium Outlets included—offer group perks too, plenty to keep the grown-ups relaxed and happy. Trolley tours whisk shoppers from store to store, keeping those feet from getting tired, and exclusive coupons provide even deeper savings.
Have you been to the mall lately?
What have you done beyond shopping and sipping on smoothies?
Amanda Black has spent the last 10 years with Group Tour Magazine uncovering the best attractions and tours for groups. She lives in Holland, Mich., with a lovely view of a meadow and duck pond. Amanda is big fan of fresh food and TV dramas as well as all things cute. Find her on twitter @amandagrouptour.
All of the outlet centers—Tanger and Premium Outlets included—offer group perks too, plenty to keep the grown-ups relaxed and happy. Trolley tours whisk shoppers from store to store, keeping those feet from getting tired, and exclusive coupons provide even deeper savings.
Have you been to the mall lately?
What have you done beyond shopping and sipping on smoothies?
Amanda Black has spent the last 10 years with Group Tour Magazine uncovering the best attractions and tours for groups. She lives in Holland, Mich., with a lovely view of a meadow and duck pond. Amanda is big fan of fresh food and TV dramas as well as all things cute. Find her on twitter @amandagrouptour.
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