Retail Sales Monitor 2/2026: Retail property in a state of flux

Retail property in Germany is undergoing a period of upheaval. Our Retail Sales Monitor 2/2026 shows how rising costs, changing consumer behaviour and structural market shifts are altering the requirements for locations and usage concepts.

Space alone is no longer enough – this is evident from our analysis of the data on this far-reaching transformation process. Traditional retail concepts are losing their significance, with the focus shifting to locations that deliver footfall, experience and profitability all at once.

5 key takeaways in a concise preview

Consolidation

The number of shops has fallen by just under 24 per cent over the past ten years. Meanwhile, the total floor space has remained stable.
Selective expansion

61 per cent of the retailers surveyed are planning to expand – but in a targeted manner
Costs

Rent and service charges are the most critical factors.
Key location factors

Rent, layout, accessibility and footfall are key factors.
More than just retail

The trend towards mixed-use developments combining residential, dining, leisure and retail facilities is boosting the area’s appeal.

In issue 2/2026 of our quarterly Retail Sales Monitor, you will also find figures and analysis for the first quarter of 2026. It is clear from this that the economic recovery remains fragile. There is a slight increase in GDP, yet inflation remains high and consumer confidence is weak.

Online retail, however, is robust: it has been growing for eight consecutive quarters. Everyday shopping online is developing particularly dynamically – led by food, with a 12.3 per cent increase in turnover.