A practical multiple factor index model for shopping center investment decisions in Istanbul

Istanbul shopping center market is currently dealing with problems in the social and environmental spheres, in addition to its challenges at the commercial side. This thesis presents a genuine multi-factor evaluation model that can be used by all stakeholders of the market. While doing so, the model has its base on the paradigm of strong sustainability and the principles of sustainable development. First of all, an extensive literature review has been conducted in this respect. Accordingly, the model is built on Commercial, Social and Environmental Pillars and their industry-related sub-factors (nine sub-factors that are corresponding to a total of twenty-six underlying headlines) are determined. Afterwards, an analytical hierarchy process (AHP) survey model has been developed based on these pillars, sub-factors and underlying headlines and it is performed face-to-face on the top decision-makers of twenty-one (out of twenty-five eligible entities that answered back) members of the Council of Shopping Centers Turkey (AYD) which have at least one self-developed Istanbul shopping center in their portfolio. Commercial Pillar has been selected by the decision-makers as the most important component with %58.1; while Social and Environmental pillars stayed behind with 22.8% and 19.1% respectively. Following this result, another primary research setup has been formulated in order to create a more objective ground. This time, a panel comprised of three experts working on the field of sustainability is assembled and individual structured face-to-face interviews which included two open-ended questions are conducted and recorded with each participant. As a result of the constructive insights that have been in line with the literature review, assigning ethical protection to the Social and Environmental Pillars of the model is deemed reasonable. This decision is also reflected in the visualization of the model. The model also offers an open source, practical Project Checklist. This thesis also acts as an overview of the foundations of sustainability, development of shopping centers, Istanbul's urban development and its shopping center market.