Part 3: Future predictions
In this section, we will discuss future predictions by answering two speaking part 3 questions.
1. Will large shopping malls continue to be popular, despite the growth of internet shopping?
In my opinion, large shopping malls will continue to be popular, despite the growth of internet shopping. Despite the availability of online shopping platforms like Amazon, physical shopping centers in my city are still crowded with people. For instance, the Trafford Centre near Manchester is immensely popular. One reason for this is that it offers more than just shopping. Families often visit the center to spend a day out, have lunch, and enjoy attractions such as Sea Life or Legoland. Naturally, while being there, they also indulge in shopping and make purchases.
To exemplify this, my friend recently told me about her experience at the Trafford Centre. She mentioned that although she usually prefers online shopping, she couldn't resist the urge to visit the center. She ended up spending the entire day there with her family, enjoying various recreational activities and exploring different stores. This shows that the unique experience and additional offerings of shopping malls make them appealing to people, even with the convenience of online shopping.
2. Do you think that some businesses (e.g. banks and travel agents) will only operate online in the future?
Certainly, I believe that some businesses, such as banks and travel agents, will solely operate online in the future. In fact, this transition has already begun to take place. Several banks already offer online-only savings accounts, and with the advancements in technology, more financial institutions will likely adopt this approach. Similarly, travel agents are also adapting to the digital age, with the emergence of travel websites like Airbnb that provide services solely through online platforms.
To further illustrate this trend, let's consider the example of a popular online savings account offered by a leading bank. This account not only provides higher interest rates but also offers easy accessibility through a user-friendly mobile application. These digital services have already attracted a large customer base, motivating more banks to shift their operations online.
The same goes for travel agents. With the convenience and extensive options provided by online platforms, travelers can now plan and book their entire trips without physically visiting a travel agency. For instance, I recently booked a vacation package to Bali entirely through an online travel website. The website offered various accommodation options, flight choices, and even suggestions for tourist activities. This emphasizes that more businesses, including banks and travel agents, will likely transition to operate solely online as customers increasingly embrace the ease and efficiency of digital platforms.
Overall, it is evident that shopping malls will continue to attract customers due to the unique experiences they offer, while some businesses like banks and travel agents will progressively shift their operations online to cater to the growing technological advancements and evolving customer preferences.
