With malls’ Metro link secured, its time to make shopping spaces pet-friendly

Team L&M

Navigating the vibrant tapestry of a bustling metropolis isn’t merely about commuting; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that harmoniously blends convenience, leisure, and community. The recent emergence of thriving malls near Namma Metro stations in Bengaluru is at the heart of this lifestyle revolution, transforming how residents experience their city.

The seamless integration of the Metro system with popular malls has introduced a transformative dimension to urban living. Jayen Naik, the Chief Operating Officer of Nexus Mall, emphasised the shifting dynamics, saying, “In today’s urban landscape, characterised by traffic snarls and myriad challenges, traversing the city can feel like a Herculean task. Enhanced connectivity, especially through the Metro, is rewriting the rules of urban lifestyle. More people are now inclined to explore different facets of the city, and often, their journey leads them to our malls.” Naik also pointed out the remarkable surge in footfall at Nexus Shantiniketan following the KR Pura to Whitefield (Kadugodi) Metro extension, underscoring the allure of a connected lifestyle.

Nirupa Shankar, the Joint Managing Director of Brigade Group, highlighted the pivotal role of connectivity in shaping lifestyle choices. She noted, “Our Orion Mall at Brigade Gateway enjoys a strategic location adjacent to the Sandal Soap Factory Metro station. This proximity has substantially enhanced footfall at our mall. Thanks to the Metro, visiting our mall has become a hassle-free and budget-friendly outing for students and families alike. Even families residing 20-30 kilometers away can now savour a day out without incurring substantial travel costs.”

Participants at the Shopping Centres Next 2023 meet 

Irfan Razack, Chairman and Managing Director of Prestige Group, speaking at the Shopping Centres Next 2023 event in Bengaluru, described how these malls have evolved into vibrant centers of city life and economic activity. He stressed the lifestyle advantages of malls near Metro stations, noting that they cater to a diverse crowd, from daily commuters to city residents seeking a unique lifestyle experience. He stated, “The seamless transition from daily commutes to shopping is a lifestyle boon for both retailers and shoppers. Being in close proximity to public transport has transformed these malls into thriving hubs where the city’s energy comes alive, and businesses flourish.”

Bringing forth the importance of having pet-friendly spaces in shopping malls, Manoj, Vice President – Operations, Forum Mall, says, “In this age of evolving lifestyles, forward-thinking mall developers should consider creating pet-friendly spaces to cultivate a loyal customer base among pet parents.”

Agrees Web Designer Manisha, who has been working in Bengaluru for five years now. “As a dedicated mall-goer and a pet owner, I strongly urge mall owners to consider allowing pets inside their premises. It’s crucial for mall owners to understand that pet owners often have to plan their shopping outings meticulously, which can be quite exhausting. As a result, we end up choosing online shopping, but if malls can open their doors to pets, it would not only encourage more visits but also make shopping a delightful experience for both humans and their furry companions,” she says.

“As a loyal customer of various malls, I believe it’s high time for malls to open their doors to our furry friends during shopping trips,” puts in Sumedha Mukherjee, another professional working in the city. “In today’s fast-paced world, where people are finding comfort and companionship in their pets, allowing pets at malls would not only enhance the shopping experience but also reflect the changing lifestyle choices of their customers. It’s a win-win situation – customers get to enjoy quality time with their pets, and malls can tap into a broader customer base,” she adds.