Skip to main content

Retail and leisure stories

Retail and leisure

Retail and leisure refers to the combination of leisure activities and shopping which can often be found in visitor attractions.

These integrated spaces are meticulously designed to provide customers with an engaging experience and may contain food and beverage outlets, retail establishments, and entertainment options. Guests can purchase themed merchandise, souvenirs, and one-of-a-kind items that will enhance their engagement with the attraction.

Successful retail and leisure align the shop environment with the attraction’s core theme. The retail offer enhances the entire thematic experience and provides guests with a sense of cohesion by serving as an extension of the attraction’s narrative.

David DeCheser, chief creative officer, North America at Valtech, told blooloop: “Theme park designers have the skills to design an experience which can immerse customers throughout the space. They can find ways to get guests to inhabit a story and connect emotionally with the brand or magical land they are in. When applied to retail, these theories have the potential to transform customer engagement. This will increase spend and create more opportunities for individuals to remember your brand.”

In addition, the sustainability of such offerings is often a key consideration in retail and leisure development, for example, the inclusion of environmentally conscious product lines, recyclable packaging, and sustainably designed processes.

The term “retailtainment” was coined in 1999 and is often used when discussing retail and leisure. This portmanteau of retail and entertainment describes an immersive shopping environment which might include features such as themed environments, interactives, and performances. Examples include branded retail locations and experiential science centre stores.

Retail and leisure news

Most viewed retail and leisure stories

Retail and leisure in depth

Awards
Harry Potter
Brand experiences
Immersive experiences
Trends

Attractions jobs

  • Museum Director
    Museum Director
    Company:
    Turner's House
    Location:
    Twickenham, UK
    Posted on:
  • BIM Coordinator
    BIM Coordinator
    Company:
    Pico Play Pty Ltd
    Location:
    Gold Coast QLD, Australia
    Posted on:
  • Technical Designer
    Technical Designer
    Company:
    Pico Play Pty Ltd
    Location:
    Hải Dương, Hai Duong, Vietnam
    Posted on:
  • Technical Designer
    Technical Designer
    Company:
    Pico Play Pty Ltd
    Location:
    Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
    Posted on:
  • Project Manager
    Project Manager
    Company:
    Pico Play Pty Ltd
    Location:
    Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
    Posted on:

Your web browser is out of date. Update your browser for more security, speed and the best experience on this site.

Find out how to update