"The Mall at Stonecrest's PIP initiative is designed to enhance the shopping experience for all of our patrons," said Patricia Elmore Edge, general manager for the Mall at Stonecrest. "This program has been developed based on customer and merchant feedback requesting the need for more specific youth visitor guidelines."
PIP will cover all mall areas, including the movie theatre, food court, hallways, stores, plaza and parking lots. One parent or legal guardian (over the age of 21) will be permitted to escort up to four youths, and at least one of the youths will need to be the child of the parent or legal guardian. Proof of age will be required. Those who cannot produce sufficient identification will be asked to leave the property.
"We have consulted with community leaders, and along with our research we feel this effort will lead to positive results such as more families and business patrons coming to the Mall at Stonecrest to shop, dine and be entertained," said Edge. "This initiative encourages families to shop the mall." "The rise in parental involvement/youth escort policies is a national trend as retail centers seek to create a family-friendly atmosphere."
PIP is an extension of the existing Mall at Stonecrest Code of Conduct, according to the Mall, which prohibits conduct such as vulgar language, running, screaming, walking in large groups that obstruct others, fighting, loitering, and disrespecting people and property.
Mall at Stonecrest security personnel have received specialized training on PIP enforcement and education. The PIP press conference is scheduled for Saturday, May 2nd at 3 p.m. during the Family Fun Day at Stonecrest presented by Commissioners Lee May and Connie Stokes from 1-4 p.m. on the Plaza.
For additional information on PIP and the Mall at Stonecrest's Code of Conduct, visit www.mallatstonecrest.com.
