What is the E-Garden Project?
In the heart of the Glattzentrum, a prime retail spot of 700m² suddenly became available. Instead of letting it sit empty—because, let’s be honest, vacancy that big is not just costly but also pretty dull and bad for the mall’s vibe—they needed a fresh, short-term concept. The goal? To fill the space with something exciting that would not only rent the area but also boost the image of the Glattzentrum. Enter the “E-Garden” exhibition, a curated experience that invited visitors to step into the future of mobility and retail in the age of online shopping. It wasn’t just another “coming soon” poster or a pop-up store that barely breaks even. Nope, this was something different, something engaging, and definitely something memorable.
Main Benefits of the E-Garden Exhibition
Here’s what made the E-Garden stand out:
- 700m² of prime retail space transformed into an interactive experience
- Collaboration with renowned partners like TCS, Energie360°, Tesla, Renault, Hyundai, and BMW
- Showcased cutting-edge e-mobility options: e-bikes, e-scooters, the Microlino, and even Harley Davidson’s first electric motorcycle
- Utilized existing infrastructure such as public transport links and modern charging stations
- Maintained and enhanced the Glattzentrum’s image as a sustainable, forward-thinking shopping destination
- Successfully avoided costly vacancy while creating a buzz around future mobility concepts
Why Temporary Use Matters
Vacant retail spaces can be a real headache—expensive, uninspiring, and frankly, a drag on the overall atmosphere. The E-Garden project showed that temporary use doesn’t have to mean “just filling space.” Instead, it can be a powerful tool to keep things lively and relevant. By turning an empty spot into a hub of innovation and excitement, the Glattzentrum demonstrated how short-term concepts can breathe new life into retail environments, especially in times when online shopping is changing the game.
Partnering for a Sustainable Future
The success of E-Garden wasn’t just about cool gadgets and flashy displays. It was about collaboration. Working with industry leaders like TCS and Energie360°, alongside top car manufacturers such as Tesla, Renault, Hyundai, and BMW, brought credibility and depth to the exhibition. These partnerships highlighted the shared commitment to sustainability and innovation, showing visitors that the future of mobility is not just a dream—it’s happening now, and it’s accessible.
Innovations on Display
Visitors got to experience firsthand a range of exciting innovations. From e-bikes and e-scooters to the quirky Microlino and Harley Davidson’s first electric motorcycle, the exhibition was packed with future-forward vehicles and concepts. This wasn’t just about looking at cool tech—it was about understanding how mobility is evolving and what it means for everyday life. The E-Garden made it clear: the future is electric, sustainable, and downright exciting.
Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – Promoting electric mobility and charging infrastructure
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Showcasing cutting-edge transportation technologies
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Encouraging sustainable urban mobility solutions
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Highlighting eco-friendly transport options
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Supporting reduction of emissions through electric vehicles
Looking Ahead: The Future of Retail and Mobility
The E-Garden project proved that retail spaces can be more than just places to shop—they can be platforms for education, innovation, and community engagement. By embracing the future of mobility and sustainability, the Glattzentrum set a new standard for how shopping centers can stay relevant and vibrant in a rapidly changing world. It’s a glimpse into what’s possible when creativity meets purpose, and when temporary spaces become catalysts for lasting impact.
