Shanghai mayor checks out pedestrian malls

Shanghai Mayor Ying Yong visited the pedestrian streets on Nanjing Road E. and Xintiandi in downtown Huangpu District – two popular shopping strips – on the second day of the Labor Day holiday on Thursday.

Ying visited the Shanghai New World Daimaru shopping mall on Nanjing Road E. and the Shanghai No. 1 Department Store which was upgraded last year.

During the visit, Ying inquired about the consumer orientation and operational structure of the pedestrian street, as well as the local management authority’s vision about future development.

Ying said consumption plays a fundamental role in the growth of a city’s economy and encouraged improvement in consumers' shopping experiences and environment.

Local officials said the average age of consumers has become younger after a series of renovations of a few aged shopping malls along the street and the introduction of new brands.

At Xintiandi, Ying toured around the Taiping Lake and learned about the operations of the Huaihai Road M. commercial street. According to local officials, Xintiandi has been exploring a new commercial model by introducing innovative stalls in open-air area to build the popular complex into a more energetic and enriched fashion landmark.

Ying encouraged the officials to organize more outdoor activities in the area to attract more visitors and create an appealing atmosphere for visitors from home and abroad.