More of those consumers are going to strip malls. While some outlets like traditional malls have struggled to retain shoppers, foot traffic to strip malls is booming. Annual visits to strip malls surged 18% last year compared with prior to the pandemic, according to data compiled by analytics company RetailStat. The U.S. has more than 68,000 strip malls from coast to coast, according to the International Council of Shopping Centers. But strip malls face criticism for being eyesores in their communities, adding to environmental problems and contributing to the demise of traditional business districts.

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Persons: Jessica Vara, Hunton Andrews Kurth, Macy's Organizations: International Council of Shopping Centers, Retailers Locations: U.S