As December arrives, Colombian shopping malls launch immersive strategies with decorations, cultural events, and operational reinforcements to draw visitors during the peak consumption season. Meanwhile, online platforms like MercadoLibre and Amazon allow gift returns within 30 days, provided specific conditions are met. These efforts aim to enhance the shopping experience in a month accounting for 22% of annual commerce sales.
December accounts for nearly 22% of Colombia's annual commerce sales, according to Raddar figures, making it a pivotal period for shopping malls. In Bogotá, venues like Titán Plaza and Unicentro kicked off their Christmas activities with light-up spectacles, drawing crowds as major opening events. Titán Plaza saw over 6 million visitors in December 2024 and projects 10% growth this year, driven by a cultural and entertainment agenda. Yazmín Lombana Romero, Titán Plaza's manager, stated: “Our goal is to elevate the experience, extend dwell time, and position Titán Plaza as a hub for entertainment and culture, beyond shopping at over 200 brands”.
Unicentro Bogotá aims to exceed 2.2 million visitors via its “Pasaporte Navidad” campaign, featuring large-scale decorations mimicking destinations like Paris, Iceland with AI support, Germany, and the US, plus over 250,000 high-efficiency LED lights. Center manager Camilo Ángel Moreno noted: “The entire mall's lighting was also renewed”. Both emphasize flawless logistics, with special protocols and training to manage high traffic.
Cultural elements are gaining prominence through novenas, Colombian music concerts, choirs, and children's activities, alongside donation campaigns and technology for visitor engagement. Meanwhile, for popular online purchases this season, returns are a key right. MercadoLibre and Amazon permit refunds for new products within 30 days if unused. Falabella allows up to 30 days or 5 business days without justification, offering cash or gift cards. Alkomprar, Shein, and Adidas follow similar policies, up to 30 or 60 days, requiring intact tags and original packaging. Alterations or use may void returns, so reviewing each platform's terms and conditions is advised.
