Viewpoint | Adaptive Spaces
What’s Happening (and What’s Next) in Automotive Retail Real Estate?
Explore the latest happenings in automotive retail real estate in Asia Pacific in what is an increasingly complex and competitive marketplace
October 23, 2025 5 Minute Read
Recent years have seen the global automotive industry grapple with an array of challenges including supply chain disruption, the ongoing transition to and subsequent slowdown in EV sales, evolving consumer requirements; and, most recently, escalating geopolitical tension and tariffs.
Other hurdles include a need to comply with 2030 net zero and sustainability targets (for manufacturers continuing to build petrol engine cars) and regulatory requirements related to new technologies such as connected and autonomous vehicles.
Labour shortages pose further challenges, with declining birthrates and younger generations’ unwillingness to enter the traditional manufacturing sector making it even more difficult for automakers to find staff in certain markets.
There also exists a widening skills gap as auto firms struggle to recruit employees with new and sought-after technical skills such as those related to EV technology, software, and data analysis.
Against this backdrop, many auto firms in Asia Pacific are reorganising operations, reducing headcount, and engaging in M&A activity and strategic partnerships; a process that is inevitably reshaping their commercial real estate requirements.
This Viewpoint explores the latest happenings in automotive retail real estate in Asia Pacific in what is an increasingly complex and competitive marketplace.
Business Contacts
Sidharth Dhawan
Executive Director, Head of Flex and Auto Leasing, Advisory Services, Asia Pacific
Vivek Kaul
Managing Director, Head of Retail Leasing, Advisory Services, Asia
