A study on prevailing factors for the success of small-scale shopping centre in Hong Kong

Abstract

According to unofficial statistics information (i.e. Wikipedia and Editorial … etc.), the proportionality for small-scale shopping centres in Hong Kong is around three times of the same for large-scale. This indicates the market of small-scale shopping centres is significant and cannot be ignored.

In fact, many studies were done by scholars regarding the successful management of large-scale shopping centres, yet detailed study related to such kind of small-scale shopping centres is found absent or pretty rare. Under observation, the management of stand-alone large-scale shopping centres is too perfect to criticize, whereas the same of small-scale shopping centres is unsystematic or can be called messy. Obstruction, security loophole, poor management and cleaning problem found in these shopping centres not only produce great nuisance to the owners/ occupiers, but also transform to be a social problem.

The major scope in this study will be around the facilities and management services provided in small-scale shopping centres underneath composite building (residential + retail) or commercial building (office + retail). Meanwhile, pros and cons of these shopping centres will be noted and referred.

By consolidating the data of difficulties in managing overseas Mixed-use developments. 7Ps marketing mix, management theories and practical examples, a framework for analyzing the prevailing factors for small-scale shopping centre is explored. Empirical research will indicate practical solutions to the drawbacks of small-scale shopping centres in stratified ownerships as well as the prevailing measures for the improvement of shopping centre environment.

The results of this study are meaningful for prospective retailers to find shopping centres with good business environments and for other centre managers or practitioners to improve the environment/ strengthen the user-friendliness and competiveness of this kind of shopping centres.