Consumer’s welfare in the retail environment: implication for retail property development planning and policy

Abstract

In West African commercial cities, research on customers' well-being, social life, safety and retail environment is underrepresented. This study aims at examining how the environment of shopping malls influences feelings of well-being. Subsequently, the policy way-forward towards ensuring the sustainable well-being of consumers is solicited. Using the mall intercept technique, data were gathered on Tuesdays and Saturdays of the week. Subsequently, two categories of interviews (physical and telephone) were conducted. While the quantitative data were analysed using regression analysis, we utilized computer-aided qualitative data analysis software (CAQDAS-Atlas. ti) to analyse qualitative (interview) data. The study discovered that the shopping environment contributed to shopper's well-being. It suggests that shopping activities contribute to shoppers' social, leisure and work-life in the study area. However, there are issues with safety, self-identification, atmosphere and price/promotion from the outcomes. Social, leisure and work-life of shopper associates with retail environment. More concern is raised on safety (security). Planning, branding and rethinking strategies can be of help.