The Rise and Fall of Malls in America: A Cultural Phenomenon

Summary

In this article, we explore the cultural significance of malls in America and how they have shaped the identity of teenagers in the 80s. We discuss the decline of malls due to overbuilding, cannibalization, demographic shifts, and the rise of online shopping. However, there are proposals to redevelop and re-inhabit these properties, with over 450 currently being tracked for potential new uses. We also touch on the trend of paintball zombie experiences being offered in dead malls outside of London and the metaphorical significance of inhabiting these abandoned spaces.

The Opening of Starcourt Mall in Stranger Things
The Rise of Malls and Decline of Mom and Pop Stores
The Decline of Malls and Rise of Online Shopping
Redevelopment of Failed Malls
Paintball Zombie Experiences in Dead Malls
Conclusion

The Opening of Starcourt Mall in Stranger Things

The new season of Stranger Things features the opening of the Starcourt Mall, which is fitting for a show set in the 80s where malls played a significant role in American culture. Malls became the go-to place for shopping and played an important role in shaping the identity of teenagers.

The Rise of Malls and Decline of Mom and Pop Stores

However, the rise of malls led to the decline of mom and pop stores in downtown areas. The development of suburbs and malls was a result of the lack of investment in cities, which started to change in the 90s.

The Decline of Malls and Rise of Online Shopping

The number of enclosed shopping malls in the US has decreased from 1,500 to under 1,000, with a projected loss of another quarter of them. The decline of malls began in the 90s due to the overbuilding of malls, cannibalization, and demographic shifts. The rise of online shopping has also contributed to the decline of malls, as social functions are being substituted with online interactions.

Redevelopment of Failed Malls

Failed malls are being redeveloped into downtowns, community-serving spaces, and green spaces, depending on the market. Entrepreneurs have tapped into the apocalyptic imagery of dead malls to create new opportunities.

Paintball Zombie Experiences in Dead Malls

The speaker discusses the trend of paintball zombie experiences being offered in dead malls outside of London. Participants are given paintball guns and must shoot professional actors dressed as zombies while following a scripted storyline. The speaker notes the metaphorical significance of inhabiting these abandoned spaces and how it relates to the popularity of shows like Stranger Things.

Conclusion

In conclusion, malls played a significant role in shaping American culture in the 80s and 90s. However, the decline of malls due to overbuilding, cannibalization, demographic shifts, and the rise of online shopping has led to the redevelopment of these properties. The trend of paintball zombie experiences in dead malls highlights the metaphorical significance of inhabiting these abandoned spaces and the cultural obsession with vacancy and death.