A research produced by
Retail was the fastest growing sector of the commercial property market in Europe last year, with volumes rising to a total of €67.3bn, the second largest annual total on record.
A spreading of demand to new markets was a major feature of the year but the strongest driver was actually Germany, which saw a doubling in trading volumes to move past the UK to become the busiest retail investment market in Europe.
Within the retail market, larger assets and portfolios have driven volumes higher, aided by a stronger finance market, with shopping centres the key contributor but interest in retail warehousing and high street shops also strong.
Levels of investment supply are now improving but shortages of quality space will continue to drive pricing and encourage further diversification into new markets led by southern and central Europe.
Core markets however will remain in highest demand in what looks set to be an uncertain and volatile global economy, with Germany and the Nordics set to post a new high, underpinning a 5% growth forecast for retail volumes across the region overall in 2016.
Source : Cushman & Wakefield
