Retail Competition Intensifies, Malls Alter Strategies to Maintain Visitor Traffic
The competition within the shopping centre industry means that mall managers can no longer rely solely on occupancy rates; they must also adjust tenant composition and the visitor experience. This strategy is being implemented through area renewals, the introduction of new tenants, and various activities designed to maintain visitor traffic.
This strategy is also being applied by Lippo Mall Kemang, which recorded an occupancy rate of more than 95 per cent up to September 2026. During the same period, the number of visitors increased by 8 per cent compared to the same period in the previous year.
Dimas Kusuma, Director of Lippo Mall Kemang, stated that growth in occupancy, tenant mix, and traffic serves as an indicator of a shopping centre’s relevance to the needs of both consumers and tenants.
“The growth in occupancy, tenant mix, and traffic shows that Lippo Mall Kemang remains relevant to consumers and tenants. For us, growth is not just about numbers, but about how we continue to provide a tenancy mix and experience that meets consumer needs,” Dimas said in a press release on Monday (28/09/202<0xC2>6).
One of the strategies employed is the renewal of mall areas. Renovations on the ground floor were carried out by connecting different sides of the mall to improve circulation and connectivity between different zones within the shopping centre.
Regarding the tenant mix, a number of new lessees, as well as existing tenants undergoing renewals and expansions, have moved into the mall. Dimas noted that updates are being achieved not only through tenant composition but also through the gradual renovation and development of mall areas.
“Since the post-pandemic period, we have consistently implemented updates to both the tenancy mix and mall area renovations. In fact, we are about to launch new initiatives starting at the end of 2026, continuing through 2027 and 2028,” he added.
In addition to physical updates and tenant composition, in-mall activities serve as another strategy to maintain visits. Lippo Mall Kemang has hosted various events, ranging from concerts, communal screenings of the 2026 World Cup matches, Crazy Burger Fest, and the DBL 3-on-3 finals, to the Miners Fest in collaboration with Danantara and Mind.id.