Mall-going but budget-constrained: gen-z shoppers shape the future of retail

For Gen Z shoppers, who find inspiration on TikTok and often opt for homemade gifts, trips to the mall are no longer just about shopping; they've become social events where friends can hang out, attend in-store events, and connect with brands.

As this generation's spending power is expected to reach nearly $12 trillion by 2030, retailers must adapt to their unique values. Gen Z shoppers are now extremely value-oriented, feeling constrained by debt and inflation, which leads them to prioritize not only price but also the social and emotional value behind a purchase.

In order to capture this generation's attention and loyalty, retailers must shift from simply selling products to connecting with customers on an emotional level. Neil Saunders, retail analyst at GlobalData Retail, suggests that a hard sell approach can feel "soulless" and "inauthentic." Instead, he recommends focusing on creating meaningful experiences that foster brand connections.

Membership programs are one way malls can tap into Gen Z's desire for community. Malls like the American Dream in New Jersey offer perks such as exclusive sales and releases, while its sister establishment, Mall of America, has hosted fan-meets with popular K-pop groups to celebrate new store openings.

However, even though Gen Z shoppers may frequent malls frequently, they're not always buying; instead, they seek out experiences that bring value beyond transactions. Before making a purchase, many researchers compare brands, analyze product quality, read reviews, and hunt for coupons.

As a result of this "hunt for the deal," a dupe culture has emerged, where Gen Zers enthusiastically seek cheaper lookalikes rather than brand-name originals. However, when it comes to gifting, they tend to favor personalized items or experiences over dupes.

In an effort to make sustainable products more affordable, some are turning to homemade gifts and experiences. For instance, Nicholas Asiedu gives his girlfriend the gift of a lasting memory by taking her on trips to museums.

Retailers will need to adapt to this unique approach if they hope to capture Gen Z's loyalty and attention in the long run. Neil Saunders emphasizes that retailers must be focused on this generation for the here and now, as understanding their values and preferences is crucial for success over the next 10-20 years.

Retailers gotta step up their game if they wanna hang with Gen Z shoppers! They're not just looking for a good deal, they wanna feel like they're part of something special too. Malls and brands need to create more than just a shopping experience, we need memories! Like, have you seen those fan-meets at the Mall of America? That's what I'm talking about! Not just buying stuff, but being part of a community. And let's be real, with all this inflation and debt, Gen Zers are super savvy when it comes to finding deals. They're like, "Is this worth it?" So yeah, retailers need to get creative if they wanna win over these shoppers.

omg I'm like totally stoked about this! malls are gonna have to level up their game if they wanna keep those Gen Z shoppers happy it's all about creating a vibe, you know? like, who doesn't love a good fan meet or exclusive sale but for real tho, these kids want more than just some sick deals - they want experiences that make 'em feel special so yeah, membership programs and events are totes on point and can we pls talk about how awesome it is that people are making their own gifts instead of buying dupes? like, Nicholas Asiedu taking his girl on a museum trip? that's the kind of love I'm here for

OMG u no wot! Retailers gotta step up their game or they'll get left behind . Gen Z shoppers r not just about gettin gifts, its about creatin experiences ! They wanna know if ur brand is genuiune and cares bout the vibes . Membership programs are key but retailers gotta be authentic too . Those malls that host fan-meets and exclusive sales r doin it rite . But lets get real, most Gen Zers r more about savin $$$ and comparin prices . They're all about findin deals and dupes . Retailers gotta adapt to this new norm or risk losin out .

Retailers gotta step up their game . Gen Z shoppers aren't just about saving a buck; they care 'bout the vibe too . They wanna be part of something bigger than just buying stuff, you feel? Brands need to create experiences, not just sell products . Membership programs and events are cool and all, but it's about building that emotional connection, you know? They're not gonna drop that much cash if they don't feel like they're part of something special . And honestly, who needs a new pair of kicks when you can get an experience with your fave brand ?

I'm low-key obsessed with how Gen Z shoppers are changing the game ! Did you know that by 2030, Gen Z's spending power will reach a whopping $12 trillion? That's insane ! They're not just about buying stuff, they want experiences and social value attached to it. I mean, who doesn't love a good mall meetup or exclusive sale event ?

But here's the thing, their shopping habits are super value-driven and data-obsessed . They compare brands, read reviews, and hunt for deals before making a purchase. That's like, totally normal if you ask me ! However, when it comes to gifting, they tend to go for personalized items or experiences over dupes. Like, take Nicholas Asiedu's trip to museums as a gift idea? Genius !

Retailers need to adapt ASAP . They can't just be about selling stuff; they need to create meaningful connections and experiences that speak to Gen Z's values. Neil Saunders said it best – a hard sell approach feels "soulless" and "inauthentic." Let's get this right, folks!

Here are some stats to back this up:

* 70% of Gen Z shoppers prioritize social value when making purchasing decisions
* 60% of Gen Zers say they're more likely to engage with brands that offer experiences
* The average Gen Z shopper spends around $1,300 per month on experiences and social activities

Anyway, let's get this conversation started! What do you think retailers can do to adapt to Gen Z's unique shopping habits?

[Image of a person holding a sign that says "Value Over Price" with a cute animal mascot by their side]

[GIF of a mall with people having fun, laughing and taking selfies, but then it suddenly changes to a person comparing prices on their phone, looking unhappy]

[Meme of a person giving a gift wrapped in a box that says "Homemade" with a big smile]

[Image of a chart showing the rising spending power of Gen Z, with a growing number and a red arrow pointing upwards]

I'm telling ya, back in my day we didn't care about all this emotional value stuff when it came to shopping . We just wanted to score some sick deals and maybe catch a movie at the cinema afterwards . But I guess times have changed and now Gen Z is all about experiences and social proof . It's wild how they're not even buying things as much, but still want to feel connected to the brands . I mean, who wouldn't want to give their girlfriend a museum trip instead of some random gift ? Retailers need to step up their game and focus on creating those meaningful experiences or risk getting left behind . And btw, dupe culture is where it's at for me - I mean, who needs original prices when you can get the same thing for half the price?

Gen z shoppers are literally changing the game for malls ! They're not just about shopping anymore, it's a social event where you can hang out with friends and connect with brands . Retailers need to shift from hard sell to creating meaningful experiences that foster brand connections . Membership programs like exclusive sales and fan-meets are a great way to tap into their desire for community . But let's be real, Gen Z is all about finding value beyond transactions . They do their research, compare brands, and hunt for deals . That's why dupe culture is a thing, but when it comes to gifting, personalized items or experiences are where it's at . Retailers need to adapt to this unique approach if they want to capture Gen Z's loyalty and attention . It's all about understanding their values and preferences now and in the future .

Malls need to step up their game if they wanna keep those Gen Z shoppers coming back . It's not just about selling stuff anymore, it's about creating a vibe and making them feel special. Membership programs are a good start, but we need more experiential events that go beyond just sales and promotions . And let's be real, those "dupe" culture vibes are gonna fade fast if retailers don't offer something better. Personalized gifts and experiences are where it's at, imo . Retailers gotta get on board with this emotional value thing and focus on building relationships instead of just making a sale .

I'm so down with this Gen Z shopping vibe , it's all about creating experiences and connecting with brands on a personal level . I mean, who wants to just buy stuff when you can make some memories with your friends at the mall? They're not just looking for a sale, they want to feel like they're part of something special . And let's be real, having exclusive access to new releases is pretty cool too . I wish more malls would offer perks like that... it makes shopping way more enjoyable .

Retailers gotta get with the times ! This Gen Z thing is all about experiences and emotions, not just about slapping a price tag on something. I mean, sure, they're value-driven, but it's not just about saving a buck – it's about feeling good, connecting with brands, and getting that FOMO (fear of missing out) vibe .

Malls need to shift from being just places to shop to destinations for socializing and entertainment. Membership programs and events like fan-meets are a great start, but retailers gotta think beyond that. They need to create meaningful connections with customers, not just try to make a quick sale .

And let's be real, Gen Zers are all about research . Before buying something, they're comparing brands, reading reviews, and hunting for deals. It's like they have an endless budget in their heads ... except when it comes to gifting, they want something unique and personal. That's where homemade gifts and experiences come in – they show you care .

Retailers gotta adapt to this new normal or risk getting left behind. Neil Saunders is spot on – understanding Gen Z's values and preferences is key to success. It's not about just selling stuff; it's about creating memories, building relationships, and being part of the community .

Gen Z shoppers are literally changing the game when it comes to malls ! They're not just about buying stuff, they want a vibe , and if you don't give 'em one, they'll just go elsewhere . Like, have you seen those K-pop events at Mall of America? Mind. Blown.

But seriously, retailers gotta step up their game. It's not just about selling products anymore; it's about creating experiences that bring value beyond the transaction . And let's be real, most Gen Zers are super particular about what they buy and how much they pay for it .

I mean, I love a good coupon hunt as much as the next person , but when it comes to gifting, personalized items or experiences all the way . And those homemade gifts? ? That's some real thoughtfulness right there .

Retailers gotta get with the times and focus on building those brand connections . No more hard sell approach; we need authentic, soulful experiences that make us feel like we're part of something bigger . And if they can do that, I'm all in !

Gen Z is like the ultimate couch surfers... they wanna hang out at malls but don't always wanna buy stuff . Like, I get it, inflation and debt are no joke . But seriously, retailers gotta step up their game if they wanna connect with these value-conscious shoppers . It's not just about slapping a price tag on something, they want that emotional connection, fam! And those membership programs? Genius idea! Malls should be like the ultimate social hangouts... err, I mean, shopping destinations . But for real, let's get real, if Gen Z is gonna shop, it's not just about buying stuff, it's about creating memories and experiences .

I'm kinda worried about malls adapting to Gen Z's shopping habits . They're not just looking for deals, they want experiences that make them feel connected to brands. It's like, if you're gonna sell me something, at least tell me a story behind it, right? Those membership programs and events are cool, but what about the people who can't afford to shop there or don't have time for all that? I think we need more inclusive options for people with different budgets and lifestyles. And those homemade gifts? That's a beautiful thing, but not everyone has the means or creativity to make something like that. We gotta find a balance between making experiences and keeping it accessible for everyone

gen z shoppers are literally changing the game they're not just about bargains, it's about the vibes too malls need to step up their social events game or else they'll be left in the dust and those dupe cultures? more like desperate attempts to save a buck lol but for real though, personalized gifts and experiences are where it's at gotta give credit to nicholas asiedu tho, taking his gf on trips to museums is the ultimate gift

I think it's super cool how Gen Zers are making shopping more about hangouts and experiences than just buying stuff . But at the same time, I feel like retailers need to step up their game if they want to keep up with this generation's values. It's not just about being cheap or having a sale (although those things can be tempting ). They actually care about the social and emotional value behind what they buy. And let's be real, who doesn't love a good experience? But for malls to really capture Gen Z's attention, they need to focus on creating those experiences that foster brand connections - not just selling stuff to them. It's all about understanding their unique values and preferences, which is something retailers should totally get on top of. I mean, come on, it's not rocket science ... just put some thought into what Gen Z wants and needs, and you'll be golden .

Gen Z shoppers are totally changing the game I mean, think about it - for them, malls aren't just about buying stuff; they're social events where you can hang out with friends, attend events, and connect with brands. It's all about the experience now! But at the same time, they're super value-conscious, which is making retailers rethink their approach. Like, who wants to hear a sales pitch that just feels soulless? No thanks!

I love how membership programs are becoming a thing - it's all about creating community and fostering those brand connections And let's be real, who doesn't want exclusive deals and new releases? But what I think is really cool (and a little sad?) is the dupe culture that's emerging. Like, why settle for cheaper lookalikes when you can get the real deal? Unless it's something personalized or experiential... then yeah, go for it!

It's all about understanding Gen Z's values and preferences, right? They're not just looking for cheap stuff; they want experiences that bring value beyond transactions. And retailers need to step up their game if they want to capture this generation's loyalty . I mean, by 2030, their spending power is going to be HUGE . So yeah, let's get ready for a new retail revolution!

Gen Z shoppers are literally changing the game when it comes to malls and shopping . They're not just about splurging on stuff, they wanna have a blast with friends, check out some sick in-store events, and get that brand love . And, let's be real, their spending power is gonna be HUGE by 2030 - like $12 trillion HUGE .

Retailers gotta step up their game and connect with these guys on an emotional level, you feel? No more hard sell vibes, please. They wanna know the story behind that product, not just its price tag . And, have you seen those membership programs? Genius! Exclusive sales, fan-meets... malls are getting it right .

But here's the thing: Gen Zers ain't always buying, they're more about finding deals and experiences . They do their research, read reviews, and hunt for coupons like pros . That's why that dupe culture is so big - they wanna save a buck without sacrificing style .

And, gifting? Forget the dupes, it's all about personalized items or experiences now . Like, Nicholas Asiedu takes his girlfriend on trips to museums... talk about a lasting memory ! Retailers gotta adapt and focus on this generation for real if they wanna stay relevant .