Rising Demand for Retail Space Despite Limited Availability

[Sanjeev Advani]

Despite concerns over store closures, demand for retail space surged in the second quarter of 2024. Retail tenants filled nearly 13 million square feet, marking an 80% increase from the first quarter and the 14th consecutive quarter where more space was filled than vacated. However, availability remains tight, with a record-low vacancy rate of 4.5%.

Retail move-ins reached 86.3 million square feet, while move-outs balanced the market at 86 million square feet. The 13 million-square-foot demand increase was mainly due to new pre-leased spaces becoming available.

Looking ahead, demand for retail space is expected to remain strong despite upcoming store closures, as expansion plans from tenants are likely to offset vacancies. Retail real estate continues to be a valuable asset amid limited availability and high demand.