COLUMBUS, OH-Locally based retail REIT Glimcher Realty Trust believes in the mall concept. And it's newly released national survey of consumer shopping patterns and attitudes further fuels that faith.

As we reported on Tuesday, the survey reveals that shopper interest in the concept remains high. Further, they don't go just for the clothes but rather for what they term the entire “experience,” and report that if that experience were richer—adding such amenities as yoga classes—they'd turn out more often and stay longer.

In a follow-up interview, CEO Michael Glimcher interpreted some of the data for GlobeSt.com:

GlobeSt.com: What do you make of the general sentiment that the mall concept is past its prime?

Glimcher: Occupancy is at an all time high. We're seeing record sales per square foot and historically low occupancy costs. Combined with limited new development, we're well positioned to enhance our properties and add new and better tenants. People want to go shopping.

According to the survey results, consumers are willing to travel 30 minutes to get to the mall and spend up to five hours there. But they want an experience. It's no longer just about the purchase. People want to shop, enjoy a meal or watch a movie. It's an evolution.

GlobeSt.com: Do you expect over the next few years that the online-shopping statistics are likely to change in favor of online?

Glimcher: People shop online. They also shop at the mall. Our focus is on creating a destination. The survey supported our belief that consumers like having the option to try on clothes and accessories, seek out fashion trends and enjoy amenities like community events, entertainment and dining. There's also a desire to buy it today and wear it tonight.

GlobeSt.com: How does the survey inform your approach to your properties?

Glimcher: We think about the mix of retail, restaurants and entertainment at our centers when we lease a property or consider an acquisition. We've been adding more restaurants and food options throughout the portfolio and we're looking at service options as well. The survey solidified many of the things we were doing.