“Although we have been given possession of the shops by the mall authorities, starting the store is not a viable option till the multiplex opens — that is a surefire magnet to attract the public," said Suraj, owner of Trenz, a chain selling artificial jewellery, in the Shalimar mall.

Talking to Newsline, Managing Director of Shalimar mall, M K Aggarwal, said: "Efforts are on to start the multiplex in the mall at the earliest. At present, the multiplex officials are busy with others projects elsewhere in the country."

Senior Marketing Executive of The Bella Vista, Chetan Sood, said: “Though around 20 brands have been finalised, which have started sprucing up their stores for launch, the recession has led to a definite slowing down of the entire process. Of the 64 shops at this mall, we are yet to find takers for around 10 shops.”