European Retail Market Summary 2025

Europe’s retail market regained momentum in 2025, with footfall up 1.7% and sales rising 2.3% year-on-year. Performance strengthened in the second half of the year, supported by seasonal events and promotions, although overall visitor numbers remain marginally below pre-pandemic levels. Retail Parks led the recovery in footfall, while Inner-City and Experience shopping centres delivered the strongest sales growth.

Occupier fundamentals continued to stabilise. Modest rental and service charge growth reflected indexation-led uplifts, while vacancy fell to 5.6% as space was steadily absorbed. Retail Parks were the only asset type to benefit from both indexation and new leasing activity, reinforcing their position as a standout performer.

Read our European Retail Market Summary 2025 for detailed insights by asset type, performance trends, and implications for owners, occupiers, and investors across Europe.