How did the consumer revolution lead to new ways of purchasing items?

The consumer revolution was a period during roughly 1600-1750 in England during which much of the population transitioned from a minimalist, subsistence-based existence to one in which they had disposable income with which to purchase new items. This, in turn, led to major changes in the way goods were sold, as retail shops and large markets first became prevalent and accessible to ordinary people during this time. Due to the large number of people which they attracted, these retail centers then became important social gathering places, the distant ancestors to today's shopping malls.