American Type Mega Malls in Switzerland?

In a few years time, Switzerland will be home to a few giant shopping centres known as mega malls on the outskirts of the country’s main cities and towns.

The mega mall in Berne will be known as "Westside" boasting 60 shops, multiplex cinemas, restaurants and bars, a water park and spa as well as its own hotel – and all that on Bern’s doorstep with direct motorway access.

What kinds of impact might this have?

1. Well the first I see is more people driven by using their cars for transportation.
   
2. Convenience... It could be a one stop center for most consumer needs.
3. Many traditional inner city stores closing as a result.
4. More stores inner city stories might specialize and offer more services...

All of this might be taking place in cities such as Zurich, Fribourg, Bern and Lucern to start. My hope is the lovely old town areas which are so wonderful for shopping don't get cut out as a result of the development of these mega malls.

And just so you don't miss out on all of the wonderful shops that exist now, make sure you take a look at Lucern's beautiful shopping district. This is definitely one of my most favorite areas to shop...