Difference between Mall and Department Store

Mall vs. Department Store

What is Difference between Mall and Department Store? Although at some point you have come to believe otherwise, the truth is that mall and department store are not the same. Both terms describe different types of business, but very often people get confused and think that it is the same thing. If you have any questions or want to know a little more about the difference between a department store and a mall, continue reading, because then we explain it to you.

Difference between Mall and Department Store

A mall is a unit consisting of one or multiple departments that house different stores. Also called commercial center, and the various divisions are connected by means of corridors. Also, in a general sense a mall always has a parking area, restaurants and other businesses related to the sale of food.

If we compare size, a mall is larger than a department store and generally houses several department stores. (The first mall had its origin in La Marché des Enfants-Rouges in France in 1628).

Department Store
On the other hand, a department store is an enclosure located in a building or a mall and that sells a variety of products and goods destined to satisfy the needs of customers and consumers.

Among the products most sold in a department store can be mentioned: clothing, furniture, household tools, appliances, books, jewelry; among others. In some cases, department stores may be specialized in selling particular products such as clothing or jewelry (Macy’s) or offering a whole mix of products (Walmart). Finally, department stores often comprise enclosure chains that are located in different parts of the world. (The first store by department had its origin in Bennett’s of Irongate in Derby, United Kingdom in 1734).

Key differences between Department store and Mall

Department stores are places where you can buy different items, while a mall may include different buildings connected by aisles.
A mall is bigger than a department store.
Department stores form chains, while malls do not.