Increase in Shopper Traffic: Shopping Malls in the National Capital Region Adjust Tactics to Draw More Shoppers
Delhi-NCR Malls Transform into Experience-Driven Destinations
Delhi-NCR's malls are undergoing a significant transformation, moving away from being mere shopping hubs and evolving into immersive, experience-driven destinations. This shift is a response to the digitally aware consumers who seek more than just transactions [1].
Arjun Gehlot, Director of Ambience Malls in Gurugram and Vasant Kunj, states that malls in the NCR region are redefining modern India's retail experience. Ambience Malls in Gurugram, for example, are designed to create immersive, multi-sensory environments, combining gourmet food, wellness zones, art installations, and entertainment arenas [5].
The leasing activity remains robust, with over 12.6 Mn sq. ft. projected to be leased across 2025 and 2026. This demand for premium Grade A mall space is driven by consumers' preference for structured, experience-rich retail environments over high street retail [3]. By the end of 2026, India's retail sector is expected to expand historically, with 16.6 million sq. ft. of Grade A mall space to be completed [2].
Footfall in malls in Delhi-NCR is surpassing pre-COVID levels during weekends, holidays, and festive periods. This resurgence in mall footfall signals a redefinition of what retail spaces mean to communities [1].
The transformation also involves integrating entertainment options, community engagement, and luxury brand expansions. For instance, new flagship stores like Adidas Originals at Vegas Mall highlight a focus on lifestyle and experience rather than just shopping [4].
Moreover, the rise of immersive technologies such as AI, VR, and mixed reality are being explored globally to enhance engagement, aligning with innovations anticipated in retail spaces in Delhi-NCR as well [2].
High streets are also gaining traction, with brands like Reach Group and Ocus Group focusing on well-designed, open-format spaces that offer visibility, adaptability, and a deeper connection with the community [6]. Emerging corridors like Sohna Road and sectors along it like Sector 68 are gaining traction for their connectivity and development potential [7].
Pankaj Jain, Founder and CMD of SPJ Group, states that Gurugram's commercial growth is driving a thriving retail ecosystem, with a shift in consumer expectations towards spaces offering more than shopping [5]. High-potential micro-markets like Old Gurgaon present a significant opportunity for curated, experience-led retail formats [8].
The retail landscape in Delhi-NCR is experiencing a significant revival, with retail leasing in NCR growing, particularly with the renewed focus on organised high-street formats and evolving investment preferences [9]. However, the challenge lies in sustaining engagement over time, despite the encouraging numbers in mall footfall.
In summary, Delhi-NCR malls are redefining themselves by integrating entertainment, luxury brands, and immersive experiences, evolving into destinations where shopping is combined with socializing and leisure, marking a broad industry trend toward experience-driven retail real estate [1][2][3][4].
[1] The Economic Times [2] Retail Insider [3] India Retail Report [4] Vegas Mall [5] Ambience Malls [6] Reach Group [7] Ocus Group [8] SPJ Group [9] ANI News
- The transformation in Delhi-NCR's malls indicates a shift from being traditional shopping hubs towards experience-driven destinations, catering to digitally aware consumers' preferences.
- Evolving retail spaces in Delhi-NCR are integrating entertainment options, luxury brands, and immersive experiences, fostering an environment where shopping combines with socializing and leisure.
- In response to consumer expectations, Gurugram's commercial growth is driving a thriving retail ecosystem that offers more than shopping, integrating gourmet food, wellness zones, art installations, and entertainment arenas.
- During weekends, holidays, and festive periods, footfall in Delhi-NCR's malls surpasses pre-COVID levels, signaling a redefinition of retail spaces as essential community hubs in the region.
