I actually read this in print before looking it up online, "<a href="http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/la-fi-ghostmall13jul13,1,3179436.story" title="Los Angeles Times">Illusions on Sale in Shanghai</a>":

<quote>Just as Stalin erected Potemkin villages to display the glories of communism to outsiders, Shanghai is creating its own illusion of prosperity out of the world's most luxurious brands.

Offering cut-rate rents to top-tier fashion houses, this city of about 18 million is determined to make itself look like a world capital of high fashion.

And the Burberrys, Hermes and Chanels are all too happy to join in the charade.</quote>

Certainly matches my experience.  This article has a good explanation of the dynamics behind the empty luxury stores, mainly the reduced or free rent offered used to lure them into setting up shop.