Commercial Guidebook | Real Estate Investor Magazine Commercial Handbook 2013 | Page 15

An integrated hotel, conference centre and health spa (as mentioned before) provides access to a wider target market which will also avail of the shopping facilities within the linked shopping centre. Integration into the local and regional transportation system: an assessment of several failed shopping centres recently revealed that a destructive factor common to all was the lack of accessibility via public transport. Formal amphitheatre: our research into successful shopping cent res worldw ide show t hat t he establishment of a formal amphitheatre at which a regular and qualitative series of live entertainment concerts are presented draws a sustained patronage to such centres. Once again, however, high standards need to be set and maintained. Communities react decisively and strongly to a centre management that coordinates performances of a poor quality, low standard and mediocre presentation. Local community performances: although these must be of an exceptional standard, inviting local community performers to participate in events at a shopping-centre encourages community support and, by extension, spending. Leisure activities: a common theme amongst the world’s most successful shopping centres is the integration of the positive shopping experience and the equally positive entertainment experience. ‘Shoppertainment’, as it has become