Mall Shopping and this "New Normal"

When was the last time you went inside a mall?

For me, it had been 5 months. Almost half a year.

Until today.

While I didn't feel particularly compelled to buy anything specific, it was time. I needed to venture out -- I wanted to feel normal again. So Donny, the kids and I took a trip to Upper Canada Mall to walk and meander and see what was new and different. And you know what? It was just what I needed.

Upper Canada Mall has done an outstanding job at creating an exceptionally safe and clean environment for guests and shoppers. From the moment we walked in, we noticed the presence of sanitizer stations, reduced capacity in the food court, and floor markings.

There is a clear effort to maintain social and physical distance, both in common areas and in stores, as well as a mandatory mask policy throughout the mall.

We walked, we shopped, we talked (through masks), and we even stopped for lunch. I had my temperature checked before entering one store, while others had lines to prevent crowding. Most stores added directional arrows on the floor for traffic control and in the food court, small signs were placed on the tables that weren't yet sanitized.

Was it completely normal? No.

Did I feel safe? Absolutely.

It's important to note that we visited on a weekday morning and there may be more traffic on a weekend, perhaps. But, based on what I experienced and observed, not only are the protocols in place, they're being enforced by staff and followed by patrons.

At the end of the day, we did some great shopping, but I also breathed a big sigh of relief; it felt amazing to do something I took for granted. I didn't realize how much I needed it.

Upper Canada Mall is open Monday through Saturday 11 am - 7 pm and Sundays 11 am - 6 pm. Visit Upper Canada’s website to discover what they are doing to keep you safe, open stores and new ways to shop.

Link: https://uppercanadamall.com/2020/03/13/we-care-about-your-safety/