In recent years, shopping malls in Zhangjiagang have been creating new products, services, and environments, seeking to create richer consumer experiences and invigorate urban development.
Several malls have leveraged the first-store economy to achieve stand out in the competitive market. Mambat Plaza, a key commercial landmark in Zhangjiagang, exemplifies this trend. This year, Mambat Plaza will host nearly 20 first-store brands, including notable additions like Seesaw Coffee and Domino's Pizza. Additionally, the 4,000-square-meter Freshippo store, also known as Hema, is set to open in mid-December.
Zhangjiagang's malls are also redefining traditional retail spaces, transforming them from enclosed environments into more open and interactive areas. The Mall of Splendors, for instance, features an open city lounge that serves as a social hub, where consumers can enjoy sunlight, music, and food in a spacious setting. Furthermore, outdoor commercial districts like Zhangjiagang Shopping Park and Yangshe Old Street have undergone upgrades to enhance the shopping experience.
An aerial view of Zhangjiagang Shopping Park. [Photo/WeChat account: zhangjiagangfabu365]
Moreover, Zhangjiagang's malls are focusing on creating new scenes and brands that cater to specific needs and offer diverse experiences, integrating cultural elements to meet the needs of consumers.
For example, in the past two years, Wanda Plaza has partnered with the Zhangjiagang Art Museum to explore the expression of public art in everyday life. It has established micro-galleries within the mall and continuously updates art exhibitions.
Additionally, in May of this year, a Tang Dynasty-themed (618-907) immersive theater was introduced on Yangshe Old Street. Utilizing virtual reality technology, combined with big data and artificial intelligence, the space offers an immersive experience of history and culture, providing a unique competitive advantage for the commercial district.
Looking ahead, Zhangjiagang plans to further create new models of cultural, tourism, and commercial integration with distinct cultural characteristics, rich tourism products, and comprehensive commercial facilities. This initiative aims to drive the overall upgrading of business formats and unleash stronger consumer vitality.