ABSTRACT
Nineteenth-century shopping arcades, galleries and department stores are considered to be the precursors of contemporary shopping centres. Shopping centres are described as consumption temples or prosperity enclaves, where the middle-class live a hedonistic lifestyle. Currently, the authors are observing new types of centres lifestyle shopping centres and a turn in the direction of so-called strip malls or mini malls smaller shopping centres built in neighbourhoods and small towns. Third-generation shopping centres were established at the beginning of the 21st century and were characterised with an extensive offer of spending free time. V. Gruen, referred to as the father of shopping centres, would probably not be happy with this change it should be remembered that he was a supporter of inclusive places, full of diversity. Therefore, it is worth underlining that customers visit shopping centres not only for shopping purposes.
