Brazil's Malls Evolve into Multi‑Use Urban Hubs

One in three shopping centres across Brazil now combine residential, hospitality, health and education services with traditional retail, according to the Brazilian Shopping Centers Association (ABRASCE). Grupo Almeida Junior, which controls 71% of the market in Santa Catarina, is leading the shift. Its Balneário Shopping project, opened in 2024 in Balneário Camboriú, added 114 apartments underground, boosting foot traffic and generating revenue during off‑peak hours. The company plans similar mixed‑use developments for its other five malls.

The trend is also evident in larger initiatives such as Multiplan’s Golden Lake project, slated to become the first private neighbourhood in Porto Alegre adjacent to BarraShoppingSul. By integrating housing, office space and leisure facilities, these hubs aim to keep consumers nearby, diversify income streams and revitalise surrounding areas.