A commercial complex in Zhangjiagang, Suzhou, Jiangsu province. [Photo/WeChat account: zhangjiagangfabu365]
In recent years, a wave of domestic and international brands have opened their first stores in Zhangjiagang, boosting growth in consumption and offering consumers novel experiences.
In 2023, Mambat Plaza introduced 15 brands, including Zhu Guangyu Hot Pot, Guerlain, and YSL, with nine of them being the first stores in Zhangjiagang. These new additions primarily focus on dining and cosmetics.
People wait for a table at Zhu Guangyu Hot Pot Restaurant. [Photo/WeChat account: zhangjiagangfabu365]
Hua Jiewei, deputy general manager of leasing at Mambat Plaza, noted that the addition of nine first-store brands in the basement level last September resulted in substantial growth in foot traffic, with year-on-year and month-on-month increases of 25 and 40 percent. The plaza plans to introduce 20 first-store brands on the basement level this year, aiming to increase sales.
According to data from the municipal commerce bureau, during the first three days of 2024, 11 key commercial enterprises achieved 79.27 million yuan ($11.08 million) in total sales, a remarkable 61 percent year-on-year growth.