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Market analysts show that retail is becoming increasingly polarized: Consumers are shifting toward either high-end experiences or low-cost purchases, leaving mid-market retailers struggling. This divide affects both retailers and locations — with vibrant city hubs thriving while smaller towns face challenges.

Travel retail is an industry in transition, driven by a resurgence in travel activity, new consumer expectations, technological innovations, and a growing demand for sustainable concepts. Michael Ripfl, Sales Director for Nordics & Travel Retail at umdasch The Store Makers, provides an in-depth insight into current developments, long-term trends, and specific project examples. It becomes clear that what once began as the “sale of spirits and tobacco” has now evolved into a complex interplay of retailtainment, locality, and an innovative customer approach.

When international retailers scout new markets, SES Spar European Shopping Centers is often their first port of call. The latest market entries – including KIKO Milano and Fashion&Friends in Slovenia, and the global debut of HIGGINS in Vienna – confirm SES’s position as a launchpad for brands with global appeal. With high foot traffic, premium locations, and standout architecture, SES centers continue to attract major players in retail looking to make a strong first impression.

The demands placed on brick-and-mortar retailers have intensified significantly: Experiences, clear positioning, and top-quality levels are no longer optional, but mandatory. “Only those who provide a sense of clarity stand a chance of survival.” Christoph Andexlinger, CEO of SES Spar European Shopping Centers, speaks with ACROSS about the realignment of traditional shopping centers, the power of regional retailers, and why mid-range segment retailers will only have a future, if they are uncomprisingly clearly positioned.

Bulgaria’s high-performing retail market was highlighted at NEPI Rockcastle’s third Retailers Day held recently in Sofia. More than 150 representatives from leading international retailers and industry partners gathered for a full day of insightful presentations on the Group’s new greenfield shopping centre project to be developed in the city of Plovdiv, international retail trends and global macroeconomic perspectives.

The retail landscape is undergoing a dramatic shift, influenced by the increasing demand for health, well-being, and sustainability from both tenants and the wider community, alongside the growing polarization of the market. The most successful retail transformations are those that adapt to these dual forces by prioritizing the creation of healthy and sustainable environments, catering to a range of tenant and community needs. This necessitates a thorough understanding of their intricate interplay and a proactive approach to development and asset management.

A quiet but profound shift is transforming the retail industry across Europe: while luxury and discount segments thrive, many mid-tier retailers—once considered the backbone of the high street and shopping centers—are struggling to stay afloat. This growing polarization is not merely a passing trend; it is a structural shift that reflects changing consumer behaviors, economic realities, and the need for clear market positioning. But if you take a closer look, you will see that it is not the middle that is dying, but only mediocrity. What is emerging is a new middle ground between luxury and discount, determined by one thing alone: relevance.

NEPI Rockcastle is investing around 300 million euros in a 55,000 sq m GLA mixed-use (retail, offices, hotel) extension of the Promenada Mall in Bucharest and refurbishment of the existing shopping center. This represents by far the largest retail development currently underway across all Central and Eastern European markets and is on schedule to be completed by the end of 2026/early-2027.

With the book Modern Retail Management, Dr. Johannes B. Berentzen and Dr. Philipp Hoog present an outstanding collection that takes an in-depth look at the pressing issues of today’s – and tomorrow’s – retail landscape. Featuring 24 thought-provoking chapters by 36 leading experts, the book offers a rare blend of academic insight and practical guidance. From digital transformation and omnichannel strategy to sustainability and AI, this forward-looking volume equips readers with the tools and ideas needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving sector. Essential reading for anyone looking to shape the future of retail.

Under the motto “Creating beloved places – social, sustainable & successful”, the 2025 European Shopping Places Summit brought together leading experts in the retail real estate sector from 14 different countries to discuss how to make shopping places more sustainability-oriented, successful, and impactful on a social level, while giving voice to the different markets in Europe.