⏱ ProPicks AI: June's update is now available. See which stocks are in/out >>>Unlock Stocks

Declining Foot Traffic At Malls A Challenge For Retailing

Published 03/23/2014, 02:49 AM
Retailing has never been an easy business. Consumer tastes and preferences are ever changing. In a recent report by Fidelity Investments, they note the trend in foot traffic at malls has been on the decline over the past three years.

retail foot traffic

The report notes a number of factors are likely causes attributable to fewer shoppers frequenting malls, of course the weather is cited as one of those factors this year. More systemic reason are probably influencing this behavior as well with the report noting,

"The growth of mobile devices and the increased accessibility of online pricing have helped fuel increased Web sales. Through the first three quarters of 2013, e-commerce sales increased by 17.4% over the same period in 2012 [according to the U.S. Census bureau]. Today, consumers increasingly turn to their smartphones and tablets to comparison shop on multiple sites simultaneously, rather than travel from store to store for the lowest prices. Purchases can often be delivered within a day or two, at either a nominal shipping expense or free of charge. Further, merchandise returns have been streamlined, as many e-commerce retailers send prepaid return shipping labels to customers with their purchases, removing yet another obstacle to shopping online."
 
In spite of the potential difficulties facing retailers there are retail segments that seem to be navigating this transition favorably in the opinion of Fidelity.
  • Retail destinations catering to a healthy lifestyle.
  • Housing-related retailers.
3rd party Ad. Not an offer or recommendation by Investing.com. See disclosure here or remove ads.
  • Warehouse clubs with a varying general merchandise offering.
  • Fast casual restaurants.
  • Dollar stores and off-price retailers
  • “Fast-fashion” retailers.

Which stock should you buy in your very next trade?

With valuations skyrocketing in 2024, many investors are uneasy putting more money into stocks. Unsure where to invest next? Get access to our proven portfolios and discover high-potential opportunities.

In 2024 alone, ProPicks AI identified 2 stocks that surged over 150%, 4 additional stocks that leaped over 30%, and 3 more that climbed over 25%. That's an impressive track record.

With portfolios tailored for Dow stocks, S&P stocks, Tech stocks, and Mid Cap stocks, you can explore various wealth-building strategies.

Unlock ProPicks AI

Latest comments

Loading next article…
Risk Disclosure: Trading in financial instruments and/or cryptocurrencies involves high risks including the risk of losing some, or all, of your investment amount, and may not be suitable for all investors. Prices of cryptocurrencies are extremely volatile and may be affected by external factors such as financial, regulatory or political events. Trading on margin increases the financial risks.
Before deciding to trade in financial instrument or cryptocurrencies you should be fully informed of the risks and costs associated with trading the financial markets, carefully consider your investment objectives, level of experience, and risk appetite, and seek professional advice where needed.
Fusion Media would like to remind you that the data contained in this website is not necessarily real-time nor accurate. The data and prices on the website are not necessarily provided by any market or exchange, but may be provided by market makers, and so prices may not be accurate and may differ from the actual price at any given market, meaning prices are indicative and not appropriate for trading purposes. Fusion Media and any provider of the data contained in this website will not accept liability for any loss or damage as a result of your trading, or your reliance on the information contained within this website.
It is prohibited to use, store, reproduce, display, modify, transmit or distribute the data contained in this website without the explicit prior written permission of Fusion Media and/or the data provider. All intellectual property rights are reserved by the providers and/or the exchange providing the data contained in this website.
Fusion Media may be compensated by the advertisers that appear on the website, based on your interaction with the advertisements or advertisers.
© 2007-2025 - Fusion Media Limited. All Rights Reserved.