These 3 industries are saving malls from death

For years, Sears, JCPenney, and Macy's ruled the malls.

But as department stores' businesses slump, a new generation of retailers are taking over shopping centers.

"At a time when some big department stores are struggling and Internet shopping is on the rise, the mall industry is doing surprisingly well," writes Robbie Whelan at The Wall Street Journal.

Mall sales have steadily risen every year since the recession.

Here are the industries taking over malls.

1. High-Tech stores

Technology-focused tenants like Tesla, Microsoft, and Apple are majorly driving sales, according to WSJ.

Because technology is more expensive than clothing, it's easier for these stores to turn a profit.

Consumers are also increasingly spending on this category instead of traditional goods like home decor or clothing.

Technology stores also require fewer staff and smaller spaces than department stores, resulting in fewer overhead expenses.

2. Medical Clinics

Urgent care clinics like City Practice Group of New York and Concentra are growing at a rate of about 20% a year, reports Doni Bloomfield at Bloomberg Business.

Many are taking over spacious, empty leases in malls to satisfy growing demand from consumers, according to Bloomberg.

Malls benefit from the arrangement too.

"Clinics often pay higher rents (about $25 per square foot), have better credit, and tend to sign longer-term leases," Bloomfield writes.

3. Gyms

Equinox and other gym brands are quickly taking over malls, Emily Thompson writes on the retail blog The Robin Report.

"Today, some real estate developers are embracing non-retail properties - like fitness centers - as a new kind of anchor store," Thompson writes.

Gyms are desirable for malls because their customers often visit once or twice a week. Once people are at the mall, they might decide to go shopping or visit the Food Court for dinner.

And more Americans are getting active, meaning that demand for gyms is soaring.