The Spring Festival holiday from Jan 28 to Feb 4 saw a dramatic increase in foot traffic across shopping malls in China, underlining a thriving retail sector. According to Dianping, a leading app for information on restaurants and entertainment, Panlong Tiandi and Livat Shanghai in the Hongqiao International Central Business District ranked among the top three most popular shopping malls nationwide on Feb 1.
Panlong Tiandi claimed the second spot on the list with an impressive popularity index of 99.9. This mall's success is attributed to its strategic location, unique architectural design, and a curated mix of cultural brands and dining options that cater to a wide range of consumers.
Livat Shanghai, which opened in September 2024, secured the third position with a score of 99.89. Its impressive ranking is due to its exceptional brand mix, enhanced shopping experience, and convenient location. The mall features a variety of international and local brands, extensive dining and entertainment options, and ample parking facilities, making it a favorite among shoppers.
The list of the top 50 malls compiled by Dianping not only highlights consumer preferences during the Spring Festival holiday but also reveals broader trends in urban commercial development. Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen remain key contributors to commercial activity, while second-tier cities are quickly emerging as significant players. The popularity of both specialty blocks and super shopping centers indicates a growing consumer demand for one-stop shopping experiences and brand diversity.
Data from the Consumption Market Big Data Laboratory (Shanghai) showed that from Jan 28 to Feb 3, Shanghai's total online and offline consumption reached 46.5 billion yuan ($6.36 billion). Spending by overseas visitors to Shanghai increased by 28 percent year-on-year, with transaction numbers up by 63 percent.
Shanghai's commercial landscape continues to evolve, with new shopping complexes rising alongside established centers. The success of Panlong Tiandi and Livat Shanghai underscores the market value of high-quality retail environments. As consumer preferences shift, shopping malls are increasingly focusing on experiential consumption and digital transformation to meet the growing demands of modern shoppers.
