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2. INTRODUCTION

2.1. What Are UECs?

Urban Entertainment Centres (UEC) are family-oriented entertainment

destinations that combine shopping, recreation, and entertainment to create
a unique experience. Retail needs entertainment to attract customers, while
Thesis Report V-SPARC VIT
entertainment requires retail to fund operations. UECs are created with the

right balance of retail and entertainment, ensuring a balance that appeals to

tourists and prevents them from forgetting to make purchases. The goal is to
create a unique experience for tourists, balancing the need for retail with the

desire to have fun. UECs are formed through collaboration between retail and

entertainment, allowing for a variety of UECs that can be implemented based

on the city's culture and tradition.

2.2. BACKGROUND AND HISTORY

Urban Entertainment Centres (UECs) in India are relatively new compared

to western countries, with limited precedents. The rise in disposable income,
particularly among the middle class, has led to a demand for new leisure and

entertainment options. The first UECs in India emerged in the late 1990s or

early 2000s, primarily in major metro cities, often combining shopping malls

with cinemas, gaming zones, and restaurants. Despite their popularity,
challenges such as ensuring a diverse tenant mix, managing traffic

congestion, and maintaining a balance between entertainment and cultural

relevance exist. UECs are driven by economic growth and changing consumer
preferences, evolving to meet Indian society's specific needs.

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