A strip mall is a type of shopping center that typically consists of a row of stores, often with a shared parking lot. However, there are many other terms that can be used to describe this type of retail complex. Some alternatives include shopping plaza, shopping center, retail park, retail center, and commercial strip. While these terms may be used interchangeably, they do have some subtle differences. For example, a retail center may have larger anchor stores, while a commercial strip may be more focused on independent small businesses. Regardless of the terminology used, strip malls are an important fixture in many communities, providing convenient shopping options for local residents.