Wendy Zhang/ Shanghai Daily news

The opening of Shanghai South Railway Station has boosted retail trade in the surrounding area, eastday.com reported today.
A total of 19 stores have succeeded in their bids to operate in the over 2,000 square-meter departure hall, with most already open. All these leaseholders are big-name companies, paying annual rents ranging from 400,000 to 550,000 yuan (US$50,000-US$69,000) depending on store size. "We are looking forward to the future development of the station and improving our brand-recognition," said a store operator.
The station has also boosted business in neighboring hotels. The South Railway Station outlet of Shanghai Airlines Holiday Hotel, with more than 400 guest-rooms, has seen good business since its opening several months ago.
The area around the station is set to become a multi-functional complex with residential, business, entertainment, exhibition, tourism, financial and information facilities.
The station commenced trial operation on June 25 and will officially open on July 1.