The ball is in our court

Further Covid restrictions have just been announced, which include limiting the number of people per sqm allowed into shopping centres. How has the pandemic and its restrictions affected business in malls? Anna Malcharek, the managing director of Gemini Holding and vice-president of the Polish Council of Shopping Centres (PRCH): It’s been a stressful time (smiles). Firstly, I should point out that shopping centres from the very beginning have taken every possible measure to ensure safety, both for employees – because with a centre of around 40,000 sqm at least 1,500 people will be working there – and for shoppers. The PRCH is currently talking with the government and every guideline that results from these talks is passed on to shopping centres and then implemented. Shopping centres are and have been safe, which is a message that we as a sector often communicate. Moreover, we take every possible pre-emptive measure and promote social responsibility That’s why,