UK: Is e-commerce destroying the Retail built environment?

A report by the Centre for Retail Research (CRR) claimed that the number of UK retail stores with a high street presence will drop by 20% over the next five years thanks to the growing rate of e-commerce.

As such, creating a "experience" has now become a key focus in the management of retail destinations to help drive consumers back into shopping centres. Enticing consumers in with popular food and beverage outlets, leisure activities such as cinema and even theme parks as well as incorporating ample space and seating for people to sit and search their required purchases are just some of the ways to increase attendance and repeat loyalty from customers.

The digital age is certainly creating challenges for retail developers so how do we as Architects help create an 'experience' in retail precincts that will stand the test of time? Find out in the full story "Keeping Retail Relevant in Today’s Digital Economy" on page 40 of Chapman Taylor Achievements Magazine.