It's the age of traditional retails outlets versus the Internet. The Internet has its convenience, but malls have a new secret weapon: soft play parks for kids.
With online shopping at a record high, shopping centers are trying to provide what the Internet can't. New soft play areas can create lively public spaces while keeping the parents happy. Instead of setting up play dates at a friend's house, moms will arrange to meet up at the mall's play park. And those mall play dates usually include some shopping.
Malls can no longer be just landlords. Malls have to take the extra steps to become a destination. So far, soft play areas have been a major component in increasing mall traffic. Sales of play areas to malls have grown from less than $500,000 in 2000 to an estimated $12 million this year, industry participants say.And that number is only expected to grow.
Keeping mom and dad happy is just as important as keeping the mall's little guests happy. With this in mind, many play areas are equipped with cell-phone charging stations and Wi-Fi. All of DW Designs Inc's soft play areas are equipped with these features.
Vendors are also benefiting from the addition of soft play areas in malls. Child-centric shops and stands are often strategically placed around the mall's play area.
Many shopping centers have been hurt financially by the rise of Internet shopping. Indoor play areas have proven to be a quick-fix for their financial woes.
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