There is a growing need for retailers and shopping destination managers to engage and attract shoppers on grounds other than merely what is being sold. Increased competition for time as well as for discretionary spend from other activities gives rise to a need for the retail and shopping destination industries to create positive perceptions about the shopping experience on offer.

This report provides deeper insights into today's consumers' shopping behaviour by assessing the extent to which people shop because they like it and find it an acceptable way of spending their leisure time. The report examines who goes shopping for pleasure, how often they go, who they go with and where they go, both for longer, all-day trips to major centres as well as shorter trips to more local destinations.

There is a growing need for retailers and shopping destination managers to engage and attract shoppers on grounds other than merely what is being sold. Increased competition for time as well as for discretionary spend from other activities gives rise to a need for the retail and shopping destination industries to create positive perceptions about the shopping experience on offer.

This report provides deeper insights into today's consumers' shopping behaviour by assessing the extent to which people shop because they like it and find it an acceptable way of spending their leisure time. The report examines who goes shopping for pleasure, how often they go, who they go with and where they go, both for longer, all-day trips to major centres as well as shorter trips to more local destinations.

The report assesses shopper interest in entertainment, events and activities staged at shopping centres through consumer research and examines how the shopping centre industry uses such events to enhance the shopping experience through trade research. An analysis of the implications for retailers and managers of shopping destinations of consumers' behaviour is given and future use and expectations of shopping destinations is assessed.

Mintel's Special Report Series are unique research findings that shed essential light on British attitudes, hopes, fears and desires.

By providing a comprehensive picture of the UK consumer, Mintel's special reports generally make newsworthy material for the national press, television and radio. Every report provides a thorough analysis of specialist sectors, breaking down often-complex sectors into easy to understand sections - analysed thoroughly to present the marketing opportunities and weaknesses.

Titles in this prestigious series include British Lifestyles, Sponsorship, Health & Fitness, Holidays and Consumer Shopping Habits.