Could the future of car buying shift to Shopping Centres?

I recently watched an interesting video about China’s current EV revolution. One area that stood out for me wasn’t just about the cars, but how people are buying them.

Brands like BYD, now outselling Toyota and Volkswagen in China, are moving away from traditional Dealerships and setting up sleek, interactive showrooms in shopping centres.

Why the shift?

✅ Higher Foot Traffic: Shopping centres naturally attract large crowds, giving brands access to potential buyers who may not visit a traditional Dealership.

✅ Immersive Brand Experiences: Showrooms often feature cafés, lounges, and lifestyle elements that allow buyers to engage with the brand in a more relaxed setting.

✅ Digital Sales Integration: Live-streamed car sales on platforms like Douyin (China’s TikTok) let buyers explore models, ask questions, and even make purchases, all from their mobile phones.

This model lowers operational costs, improves brand visibility, and taps into the digital habits of younger buyers. While Western markets have been slower to adopt this approach, we’re beginning to see more brands experimenting with innovative retail spaces in high-footfall areas.

Could this hybrid approach reshape global automotive retail? As consumer preferences evolve, blending online engagement with in-person brand experiences might just be the future.

If you’d like to learn more about how to harness the power of an integrated media strategy for your automotive brand or retailer, have a look at our latest webinar Talking Local: How to Maximise Your Digital Reach. We dive into practical insights and real-world examples. You can watch the recording for FREE just click here.

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