Pudong assesses malls ahead of CIIE
The Pudong New Area released an assessment of shopping malls in the area as it prepares for the second China International Import Expo.
A chef makes xiaolongbao during an event at Shanghai Tower to showcase local goods and food ahead of the second China International Import Expo.
An assessment of shopping malls in the Pudong New Area was released on Tuesday ahead of the second China International Import Expo.
Aimed at providing a better experience for expo visitors, it covers aspects that could affect their shopping experiences such as the content of advertisements, the display of goods, access to different payment systems and the appropriate ratio of toilet facilities and nursing rooms.
It also emphasizes the importance of the application of technologies by malls, such as big data and artificial intelligence to offer more convenience to customers, such as smart parking systems and robot guides.
Also, receptionists, managers and shop assistants in key positions are required to be trained to deal with emergencies, and offer multilingual services for foreign customers.
The assessment by Pudong’s commerce commission and market watchdog allows malls to make their own interior and exterior designs to add uniqueness and vibrancy.
Officials said they had studied commerce in the world’s top cities, including London, Tokyo and New York, to find where Pudong is at in the world stage and how to make it a world-class shopping destination.
The assessment will first be applied in Pudong’s major shopping areas including Lujiazui, Lianyang and Sanlin.
At Shanghai Tower, some goods representing Shanghai and China, and special services offered by shopping malls in Pudong were on display on Tuesday. They included xiaolongbao (mini steamed buns), a traditional Chinese tea ceremony and an AR (augmented reality) mirror for customers to try on virtual clothes.
