Asecs has lost four out of ten visitors during the corona crisis

At Asec's shopping center in Jönköping, a lot of renovations are underway and several signage finds are hidden.

Corona pandemic has hit hard on many stores, especially when it comes to home electronics and clothing. Asecs has lost some stores when major chains like Flash have gone bankrupt. But in one of the premises, a new store has already opened. The stores that are going well instead are grocery stores and pharmacies.

Asecs receives many inquiries from stores that are currently having a tough time with declining sales. According to center manager Lars Bröms for the discussions with each individual store on how they can get help in surviving the crisis. This may include delays with rental payments.

Could it also be that there may be talk of rent reductions?

- It could be that, but in such cases it is possible to take shop for store, says Lars Bröms.

Even before the corona crisis struck, it was tough for many retail chains in the country with increasing online commerce. The situation now has made it even tougher and many stores and chain stores are on the verge of bankruptcy.

At Asecs, there are currently about 5,000 square meters of retail space not being utilized. But according to Lars Bröms, it is mostly due to the ongoing redevelopment that is in the next phase. But pausing this because of the ongoing crisis has not been relevant.

- No, it's running according to plan.

- In the future, I think there will be more experiences in the mall. The efficient shopping where you go and shop and then go home I am not so sure will remain the same way in the future, says Lars Bröms.