Traditional Retail Struggles To Convince Shoppers To Visit Physical Stores

Consumers are also spending more money on "Instagram-worthy" moments, travel and food experiences, according to Forbes' Barbara Thau.

"Malls are getting antsy and taking some bold steps to revive traffic," Thau wrote. "They're looking to expand in-store/in-mall businesses that are seemingly Internet proof."

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Struggling To Keep A Place

While no product or service is fully "Internet proof," retailers can offer shoppers who visit its stores real-time inventory data, personalized buying history and recommendations. Many retailers attempt to offer this exact service but come up short as legacy in-store systems are not equipped to meet such needs.

One company at the forefront of combining online shopping with an in-store experience is True Religion. At some stores, shoppers can make use of the staffs Apple Watches to browse merchandise that isn't available on the sales floor.

"The idea is [to] engage shoppers with concierge-like service, keep them longer in the store, and prevent a lost sale," Thau explained.

Experiences such as these may be the only thing that will convince shoppers to visit a store.

Some Relevant Names

• General Growth Properties Inc (NYSE: GGP)
• Taubman Centers, Inc. (NYSE: TCO)
• Tanger Factor Outlet Centers Inc. (NYSE: SKT)
Simon Property Group Inc (NYSE: SPG)