Retail

The Future of Shopping Malls: Experience Over Transactions

January 2, 2026 β€’ 3 min read
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Every few years, headlines declare the "Death of the Shopping Mall." Yet, premium retail spaces in London, Dubai, and Singapore are thriving. Why? Because they have evolved from simple marketplaces into destinations for experiences.

The modern shopper doesn't go to a mall just to buy a shirtβ€”they can do that online. They go to a mall to dine, to socialize, to see a movie, or to simply walk in a curated environment.

The Navigation Problem

However, the biggest friction point in large retail spaces remains navigation. Digital directory kiosks are often broken, sanitized, or simply located too far from where you actually are. Getting lost leads to frustration, and frustration leads to shorter dwell times.

BAENAV solves this by putting the directory in the user's pocket, but making it smart. Instead of just showing a map, our AI asks: "What are you in the mood for?"

Increasing Dwell Time via Discovery

If a user says they want "Sushi," BAENAV doesn't just guide them to the food court. It can suggest a new Japanese fusion restaurant on the rooftop terrace that the user didn't know existed. It can offer a discount code for a coffee shop on the way there.

By transforming navigation into discovery, we help businesses increase footfall to under-visited areas and help visitors get the most out of their trip.

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