Over the past decade, the shopping landscape in Pakistan has undergone a noticeable transformation. Where once traditional markets and old bazaars were the go-to for shoppers, today, the tide has turned significantly in favor of mall outlets. What was once considered a luxury or an unnecessary expense is now becoming the new norm for a broad segment of the population.
Initially, the general perception among the public was that shopping in mall outlets was expensive and reserved for the elite. The polished floors, air-conditioned halls, and well-dressed sales staff gave an impression of high prices and exclusivity. However, this mindset began to shift as local brands grew in popularity and accessibility. Today, major Pakistani fashion and lifestyle brands offer the same pricing at their mall outlets as they do in standalone stores in older bazaars or markets.
This price parity has leveled the playing field, and the advantages of shopping in malls have started to outweigh the traditional marketplace experience. Malls offer a far more comfortable and family-friendly environment. Cleanliness, security, parking facilities, centralized air conditioning, and a variety of dining and entertainment options make malls an attractive destination for families, particularly in urban centers like Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi.
Despite the global shift toward online marketplaces, where brands are investing heavily in e-commerce platforms, Pakistan’s mall culture continues to thrive. In fact, mall footfall is increasing year-on-year, showing that the in-person shopping experience is far from obsolete. For many, especially families, mall outings offer a holistic experience that online shopping simply cannot replicate.
Recognizing this growing trend, brands are ensuring their presence in every prominent mall — even if that means opening outlets just across the street from existing ones. For them, visibility and customer convenience are more important than exclusivity. A mall outlet is now considered essential real estate in a brand’s overall strategy.
This rising demand has also encouraged renowned builders and developers to continue investing in new mall projects. Contrary to global trends of retail downsizing, Pakistan’s retail development sector remains bullish. The presence of strong foot traffic, a growing middle class, and the evolving tastes of a younger, brand-conscious generation ensure that there’s still “juice” in the market — enough to make malls a lucrative investment for both retailers and property developers.
In conclusion, the shift toward mall shopping reflects changing consumer behavior in Pakistan — one that embraces convenience, comfort, and a better overall experience. As brands and builders align their strategies with these evolving preferences, the future of retail in malls looks brighter than ever.
