Revisiting Retail - Webinar Summary
12.05.25
The webinar "Revisiting Retail," hosted by Income Analytics, explored the state of the retail property market in the UK and continental Europe. Matthew Richardson introduced the session, outlining the improving trends in retail real estate despite persistent challenges. Three industry experts shared their insights:
Olafur Margeirsson (UBS Asset Management) presented an overview of the retail market, noting declining vacancy rates and stabilizing rental growth. He highlighted the repricing of assets, the impact of e-commerce, and the need for careful asset selection. Retail warehouses were identified as outperforming, with improving investment sentiment.
Lawrence Fisher (New River REIT) discussed the UK retail market, focusing on shopping centres and retail parks. He emphasized strong occupational demand, Omni-channel retail strategies, and rebased rents supporting future growth. Fisher highlighted resilient consumer spending, low retailer distress, and the attractiveness of retail assets for income-driven investment.
Chris Fleetwood (Redevco) provided a pan-European perspective, noting similar trends to the UK. He highlighted investment opportunities in retail warehousing, especially in Germany, Belgium, and Iberia. Fleetwood stressed the importance of asset repurposing, sustainability initiatives, and improving debt availability supporting retail real estate.
Overall, the webinar concluded that retail markets are on a recovery path, with strategic asset selection and understanding tenant dynamics key to success. The shift in retail real estate toward an income-driven investment model was emphasized, along with positive investment sentiment for retail warehouses.
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