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An owner holds a small dog's paw as it plays on the grass. [Photo/VCG]

Major commercial centers in Shaoxing are rolling out pet-friendly services to attract more visitors and win new traffic in an increasingly competitive retail market.

The trend has gained traction in recent months as malls upgrade their facilities, host themed events, and foster communities for pet owners.

Intime Department Store, a major mall in the city, recently completed a service upgrade. It now offers free pet strollers, backpacks, and leashes, along with clear on-site instructions to guide owners.

The customer service department stated that many young consumers want to shop with their pets. The mall aims to improve the overall experience by providing thoughtful amenities such as disinfectant sprays and pet pads, which are often overlooked.

Services at Shaoxing Palace have become more systematic. In addition to offering strollers, pads, and raincoats for rent, the mall provides pet-friendly elevators and an enclosed pet park. A detailed map clearly marks where pets are permitted and where they are restricted, effectively separating pedestrian from pet zones and ensuring smoother management for both pet owners and other visitors.

Beyond infrastructure improvements, malls are strengthening user engagement through activities. Shaoxing Palace, for instance, hosts monthly pet-themed events, including a popular pet matchmaking day that went viral in June. The mall has also built a community of over 260 pet owners, establishing a stable consumer base.

Another mall, Longfor Paradise Walk, has partnered with on-site pet brands to hold events such as dog sports meets and pet beauty contests, giving owners a space to socialize and share experiences.

Industry reports indicate that malls introducing pet-friendly measures have seen a 15 percent month-on-month increase in foot traffic, while related brands have reported sales growth of more than 30 percent.