Retail sector

"Food inflation remains above the long-term average, yet the UK’s leading grocers continue to see positive performance driving investor competition for well-located supermarket assets"

"Occupational KPIs remained robust in Q1, albeit rental growth and vacancy contraction have continued to slow"

"Occupational market fundamentals remain stable despite domestic and global economic headwinds, which see shopping centre investment pause for thought"

"Longer-term disinflationary trends remain intact, driving further interest rate cuts set to boost consumer spending, but will occupier cost increases and US tariffs throw a spanner in the works?"

"With inflation on a downward trajectory and interest rates improving, a positive year of trading is expected across the shopping centre and high street markets"

"Contrary to the narrative portrayed by the media, Christmas 2024 has been a relatively successful period for many retailers. December 2024 marked the first month to experience positive retail sales volume growth since April 2022, which has had a subsequent effect on operator performance."

"Oxford Street was one of the few streets in the West End to see an acceleration in vacancy contraction and rental growth in Q4"