Determinants of mall attractiveness: meta-analytical review and future directions

The resilience of physical malls in the digital age is a testament to their adaptability and unique value proposition as entertainment and social hubs. This research aims to explore the determinants influencing mall attractiveness by conducting an exploratory meta-analysis. It focuses on four key themes: mall patronage, loyalty, experience, and attitudes toward malls, seeking to understand the critical factors driving mall patronage. The study employs an exploratory meta-analysis to systematically review and synthesize existing literature on mall attractiveness. By examining previous research, it identifies and categorizes the significant determinants impacting consumer behaviours and perceptions of malls. Key findings reveal that behavioural intentions, customer support, emotional and psychological factors, merchandise and product-related aspects, service quality, social factors, utilitarian value, and mall environment and atmospherics significantly influence mall patronage and loyalty. The study also highlights the role of socioeconomic status through a moderator analysis in influencing mall attractiveness. The research presents a Mall Attractiveness Value Framework (MAVF) to guide mall management and marketers in creating appealing and engaging environments. This study contributes to the retail literature by providing empirical insights into the dynamics of mall attractiveness amidst the increasing debate about the ‘death of the mall.’ The MAVF offers a unifying perspective on the drivers of mall attractiveness and suggests future research directions to address emerging challenges and opportunities in the retail landscape.