Raanana Mall Adds Cinema, Padel Courts to Combat Competition

Raanana's Raananim Mall is investing NIS 12 million in a partnership with innovative cinema company Movieland to build ten intimate movie theaters spanning 2,500 square meters. These new theaters will replace a Home Center store that is relocating within the mall. This move comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance the mall's appeal and compete with newer shopping centers like Big Givatayim, which recently opened nearby.

In addition to the cinema complex, Raananim Mall is also launching 12 padel courts covering 6,000 square meters on its rooftop. These additions are intended to transform the mall from a traditional shopping center into a comprehensive family entertainment hub, offering experiences in sports, entertainment, and dining.

The mall's management sees these investments as crucial for adapting to changing consumer demands. "Malls today are required to redefine their role and provide the public with a broad response that combines shopping, dining, sports, and culture," stated Dror Okashi, CEO of Raananim Mall. He emphasized the need to expand leisure areas to position the mall as a lifestyle center active throughout the day.

This trend reflects a global shift in which malls are evolving into leisure destinations rather than solely focusing on fashion retail. A senior industry figure noted that fashion alone is no longer sufficient to attract consumers, who seek new stimuli and experiences. The opening of Big Givatayim has accelerated this need for innovation among surrounding malls.

The Raanana municipality supports the mall's redevelopment, viewing the new cinema complex as part of its policy to integrate business, education, culture, and leisure. The cornerstone-laying ceremony for the cinema project is scheduled to take place soon, marking the beginning of construction.