The Origins of the Modern Shopping Mall: A Look at the Evolution of Retail Spaces
The modern shopping mall, a staple of urban and suburban life, has transformed how people shop, socialize, and interact with commercial spaces. Though malls are a relatively recent development, their origins trace back to centuries-old marketplaces and arcades that served as early forms of shopping centres. Over time, these commercial hubs evolved into the sprawling, enclosed shopping malls we know today, with shopping plazas and centres catering to different consumer needs. Among the many early developments in North America, Newmarket Plaza holds a special place as one of the first shopping centres in Ontario, contributing to the transformation of retail in smaller communities.
Early Marketplaces and Shopping Centres
The concept of a centralized shopping area dates back thousands of years. Ancient Rome had large markets such as Trajan’s Market (built around 100 AD), which featured multiple levels of shops and served as one of the earliest examples of a shopping centre. Similarly, Middle Eastern and Asian civilizations established bustling bazaars and souks that allowed merchants to sell goods in one central location.
By the 19th century, Europe saw the rise of shopping arcades, enclosed passageways lined with stores that provided a more refined shopping experience. The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan (opened in 1877) and The Arcade in Cleveland, Ohio (opened in 1890) were among the earliest forms of covered shopping centres, offering a precursor to the modern mall. These locations provided a structured and protected shopping environment, shielding customers from harsh weather while offering a variety of shops in one place.
The Birth of the Modern Shopping Mall
The foundation of the modern shopping mall as we know it today was laid in the mid-20th century. Architect Victor Gruen, often considered the “father of the shopping mall,” introduced the concept of a fully enclosed, climate-controlled shopping space that provided a community-like atmosphere. His vision aimed to create a space where consumers could not only shop but also socialize and engage in leisurely activities.
In 1956, Gruen designed Southdale Center in Edina, Minnesota, which became the first enclosed shopping mall in the United States. It was revolutionary at the time, featuring a two-story structure with a mix of department stores, smaller retailers, and open communal areas. The success of Southdale Center sparked a retail revolution, leading to a boom in shopping mall development across North America.
The Rise of Shopping Plazas and Centres
As suburban expansion accelerated in the 1950s and 1960s, shopping malls adapted to fit different formats. Alongside the large, enclosed malls, shopping plazas—open-air retail complexes—began to emerge as convenient alternatives. These plazas typically featured a mix of small stores, supermarkets, and essential services, catering to local communities rather than drawing regional crowds.
At the same time, shopping centres, which could be either enclosed or open-air, developed to accommodate a wide range of commercial needs. Some were built as large regional centres, while others, like Newmarket Plaza, became essential hubs in smaller cities and towns.
Newmarket Plaza: A Pioneer in Canadian Retail
In Canada, the post-war economic boom led to the development of new retail spaces that reflected changing consumer behaviors. Newmarket Plaza, established in 1961, was one of the first shopping centres in Ontario and remains one of the longest-standing. Located on Davis Drive, this plaza provided residents with a centralized shopping experience, featuring a variety of stores and services in one convenient location.
At its grand opening, Newmarket Plaza featured 25 retailers and ample parking, making it an attractive destination for shoppers in the growing town. Unlike the enclosed shopping malls that would dominate later decades, Newmarket Plaza followed the shopping plaza model, with an open-air design that allowed easy access to different stores.
Today, the plaza continues to be a thriving retail hub, home to a mix of national brands and local businesses. From Henry’s Camera and Value Village to specialty stores and restaurants, it remains a cornerstone of the Newmarket community, demonstrating how shopping plazas have remained relevant even in the age of e-commerce.
The Golden Age of Shopping Malls
By the 1970s and 1980s, enclosed shopping malls had reached their peak popularity. Large, multi-level malls such as West Edmonton Mall in Canada (opened in 1981) and Mall of America in the U.S. (opened in 1992) became iconic shopping centres, featuring not just retail stores but also entertainment attractions like theme parks, water parks, and cinemas.
These malls transformed into lifestyle destinations, drawing visitors for more than just shopping. The inclusion of food courts, movie theaters, and event spaces made malls cultural and social hubs, where people could spend an entire day shopping, dining, and enjoying leisure activities.
The Changing Retail Landscape and the Future of Shopping Centres
The late 1990s and early 2000s saw major shifts in retail trends. The rise of e-commerce and online shopping led to declining foot traffic in many traditional malls. Retail giants like Amazon transformed consumer habits, prompting many shopping malls to rethink their strategies.
While some malls struggled, shopping plazas and smaller shopping centres like Newmarket Plaza adapted by focusing on essential services, specialty stores, and community engagement. Rather than relying solely on traditional retail, these centres incorporated businesses such as medical offices, fitness centers, and dining establishments to maintain relevance.
Today, the future of shopping malls and plazas is centered on experience-driven retail. New developments are blending traditional shopping with lifestyle elements such as co-working spaces, entertainment zones, and interactive experiences to keep consumers engaged. Many malls are undergoing redevelopment to integrate more open-air designs, reflecting the enduring appeal of the shopping plaza format.
Conclusion
The history of the modern shopping mall is a testament to the evolution of consumer culture and retail architecture. From ancient marketplaces and shopping arcades to enclosed malls and open-air shopping plazas, these commercial spaces have continually adapted to meet the needs of the times.
Newmarket Plaza serves as an excellent example of how shopping centres can withstand changes in retail trends while remaining an integral part of the community. As the shopping experience continues to evolve, plazas and malls alike will find new ways to connect with consumers, blending commerce, convenience, and social engagement to create the next generation of retail destinations.