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Retail Parks Prove Most Resilient Asset Class in European Commercial Property
A new study presented at MAPIC reveals that retail parks have become the strongest-performing segment in Europe's bricks-and-mortar retail property market.
Retail parks are outperforming other commercial real estate categories across Europe, according to a study released at MAPIC, the annual retail property trade fair held in Cannes.
The research highlights that open-air shopping centers with a mix of big-box retailers and convenience services have maintained high occupancy rates and stable rents, even as traditional shopping malls and high streets face pressure from e-commerce and shifting consumer habits.
Investors are increasingly favoring retail parks for their lower operational costs and adaptability to omnichannel retail, including click-and-collect services. The asset class has attracted significant capital from institutional investors seeking reliable returns in a volatile market.
MAPIC organizers noted that the findings underscore a structural shift in European retail property, with retail parks capturing growing tenant demand, particularly from grocery, discount, and home improvement chains.
The study covers major European markets including the UK, France, Germany, and Spain, where retail park development has accelerated in recent years.