Shopping centres are not only affected by economic challenges, but also by structural changes. The new Real Estate Special by Deutsche Hypo – NORD/LB Real Estate Finance examines the future viability of the German shopping centre market and identifies success factors and possible solutions. It also looks at the development of the shopping centre market in various European countries.
The study concludes that although the era of the shopping centre is far from over, there is a great need for action. Customer behaviour has changed massively in recent years. Shopping is no longer the sole focus; shopping centres are increasingly being visited for leisure activities. The original function of shopping centres for pure consumption has changed to a “mixed-use” concept, which involves flexible use of space.
Shopping centres in particular, which have a high vacancy rate or are characterised by a less resilient sector mix, have a considerable need for investment. This applies in particular to centres with traditional non-food concepts. In order to be fit for the future, shopping centres must evolve from being temples of consumption to lifestyle hubs. Against the backdrop of a seemingly largely saturated market, the focus is on optimising existing shopping centres through repositioning or conversion.
“A promising strategy for increasing visitor footfall in the centres and preventing vacancies lies in adapting to the needs of modern society for experiences, digitalisation and sustainability,” explains Ingo Martin, Head of Real Estate Finance Origination. “Well-positioned, modern centres will continue to find tenants and customers in the future. This in turn enables retailers to generate stable sales, while adequate rents can be achieved from an investor’s perspective,” adds Martin.
Centres in need of modernisation attract investors with a value-add or opportunistic investment profile. After years of investor restraint, the transaction market for shopping centres is once again showing potential. ESG factors, such as reducing CO2 emissions during operation, increasing energy efficiency or supporting and promoting local communities and retailers, also play an important role in the future viability of shopping centres. The consideration of regulatory requirements in the context of ESG represents an essential challenge, whereby sustainable action also offers the centres concrete economic advantages.