The retail market is among the most impacted by the pandemic—but even within the industry, not all retailers have been impacted the same. Restaurants, enclosed malls and open-air shopping centers are all handling the pandemic differently. The differences range from government-implemented restrictions to consumer comfort.

"Many jurisdictions still restrict and limit the operation of enclosed malls, by significantly limiting and/or prohibiting in-store shopping," Scott Grossfeld, a partner at Cox, Castle & Nicholson, tells GlobeSt.com. "The same rules do not tend to apply to open-air shopping centers. In open-air centers in many jurisdictions, retailers are currently generally permitted to operate with in-store shopping, although subject to some conditions aimed at limiting congestion and high customer traffic within the store."

Open-air shopping centers are more uniquely positioned to adapt to the shopping needs. "Many open-air shopping centers, especially those, which are entertainment or lifestyle centers, contain park-like grounds and are open and inviting," says Grossfeld. "Landlords have noticed that as restrictions loosen, people who were holed-up due to the pandemic are beginning to venture from their homes and have been finding enjoyment in spending time at community-oriented shopping centers to relax.  This also often results in the added benefit of associated shopping."