Retail Consultant Before Design Begins
The Common Mistake in Mall Development
Most mall projects begin with architectural design before commercial strategy is defined. While architecture shapes the physical environment, the long-term success of a retail asset depends on planning decisions made before design starts. Without early retail advisory, developers risk creating spaces that look impressive but underperform commercially.
Retail consultants help bridge this gap by defining market positioning, tenant mix, and customer flow logic before architectural drawings begin.
What Happens When Consultancy Is Ignored?
Skipping early retail planning often leads to:
- Poor circulation design
- Weak tenant mix
- Low dwell time
- Reduced footfall
- Revenue underperformance
The Role of a Retail Consultant in Early Planning
A retail consultant focuses on:
- Market demand analysis
- Feasibility studies
- Positioning strategy
- Tenant mix planning
- Leasing framework
- Customer journey mapping
Firms such as RLPC collaborate with architects and developers to ensure the mall is commercially viable, not just visually appealing.
Why Early Collaboration Improves Asset Performance
When consultants join at the concept stage:
- Design decisions align with revenue goals
- Anchor placement supports traffic flow
- Space allocation matches demand
- Long-term asset value increases
This integration protects investment and improves operational stability.
FAQ Section
When should a retail consultant be involved in mall projects?
A retail consultant should ideally be involved before design begins, during feasibility and concept planning stages.
Do architects replace retail consultants?
No. Architects design physical spaces, while consultants ensure commercial performance. Both roles complement each other.
What does a retail consultant do in mall planning?
A retail consultant advises on feasibility, tenant mix, positioning, leasing strategy, and long-term asset performance.
Can early consultancy improve mall footfall?
Yes. Strategic planning affects circulation, tenant placement, and customer flow, which directly influence footfall.
Is retail consultancy necessary for small developments?
Even smaller retail projects benefit from professional planning to avoid costly layout or market mistakes.
