Coronavirus spread: Retailers, multiplexes, mall owners spar over rentals

Chains, multiplexes to invoke force majeure clause; litigations to increase

Differences have begun to crop up between retailers/multiplex operators and mall owners over deferring rental payouts in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak. While retailers are talking to mall owners on a one-on-one basis to invoke the force majeure clause in their contracts, multiplex operators are seeking legal advice on the same, sources have told Business Standard.

The issue acquires significance given the lockdown mode in which key Indian cities find themselves in following an increase in coronavirus cases. Retailers and multiplex operators want mall owners to either forgo rent for the period of the shutdown or lower rent in the