Situated in the heart of Sliema, The Plaza has long been a cornerstone of the island’s vibrant shopping and lifestyle scene since its inception in 1993. Over the years, this iconic shopping centre has continually evolved to meet the ever-changing demands of residents and tourists alike, positioning itself as a symbol of modernity and innovation in retail and leisure.

From innovative additions to insights on curating a diverse tenant mix; Chantal Oliveira, Marketing Manager reflects on The Plaza’s journey, and emphasises the centre's ongoing evolution.

‘‘We've made significant strides to transform The Plaza into a more modern and eco-friendly destination. Gone are most of the dark wall tiles and 90s aesthetics; instead, we’ve integrated lush greenery and garden walls, creating a natural and nature-inspired ambience."

Recent enhancements have included the introduction of a globally recognised gym, F45 and the island’s first e-sports centre, Esports Plaza, catering to the diverse interests of visitors and aligning with The Plaza’s forward-thinking approach.

"Our goal is to offer not only shopping, but an immersive lifestyle experience where every visit is enriched," adds Chantal.

Central to The Plaza's allure are its carefully curated tenants, ranging from long-standing favourites like Franks and The Body Shop, which have been at The Plaza ever since its opening in 1993, to new arrivals such as Penti, Lucy World, The Model Shop, Miss Sixty, and Gajet Café.

Chantal explains, "When selecting new tenants, we prioritise those who share our values and enhance our community’s diversity. Decisions are collaborative, ensuring each addition complements our existing mix. We are proud to say that big names choose to invest in The Plaza which shows the value that we bring both to our tenants and to our customers."

The Plaza’s dining landscape has expanded significantly with recent additions like Hi Sushi and the upcoming Big Momma’s Diner. Hi Sushi, has opened on Level 1, offering a refined dining experience with an ‘all-you-can-eat sushi’ concept. Accessible from the mall, and also from one of the busiest pedestrian roads in Sliema, Tower Road, Hi Sushi is elegant, and offers a sophisticated atmosphere. Meanwhile in The Plaza Food Hall on level 0, Big Momma’s Diner will bring classic American diner fare to the mall’s global cuisine lineup, ensuring a diverse and satisfying culinary journey for every visitor.

Recent renovations, including the installation of a living garden wall, wooden wall paneling, solar panels on the roof, and the refurbishment of all escalators inside the mall underscore The Plaza’s commitment to enhancing the visitor experience. These improvements are part of The Plaza’s continuous effort to elevate ambience and functionality while keeping sustainability in mind. Looking ahead, Chantal explains that over the next decade, the aim is to further enhance their facilities since The Plaza is continuously looking for ways to improve.

As a multifaceted destination, The Plaza caters to a broad spectrum of needs, from retail therapy and dining to office spaces and recreational activities.

"We maintain a delicate balance to ensure that what we offer resonates with shoppers, diners, gamers, office workers, and fitness enthusiasts alike," Chantal emphasises. "This diversity is integral to creating a dynamic and inclusive environment."

With just two retail spaces remaining up for lease, The Plaza seeks to complete its tenant roster with strategic additions. In selecting new tenants, The Plaza prioritises values such as customer-centricity, fairness, and honesty.

"It’s crucial that our tenants align with our commitment to putting customers first," Chantal emphasises. "We seek partners who share our vision of delivering exceptional experiences and value to our community."

As The Plaza continues to evolve and expand its options on offer, it remains steadfast in its mission to be more than just a shopping destination. It is a hub where lifestyle, leisure, and community converge, offering a unique and enriching experience to all who visit. With a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, The Plaza is poised to remain a cornerstone of Malta’s retail landscape for years to come.