CRE 360 Partners Reports Promising Retail Trends at ICSC New York 2025

CRE 360 Partners, a leading commercial real estate consulting firm, has released compelling findings following the ICSC New York 2025 event. As retailers gear up for 2026, they're adopting a disciplined approach focused on quality growth, according to the firm’s insights. Sam Collier, Managing Director at CRE 360 Partners, emphasizes this shift, stating, "What we're witnessing isn't a contraction in the market; it’s a concentration. Retailers are strategically entering areas confirmed by data to thrive, revolutionizing their growth strategies."

Retailers’ Strategic Focus for 2026

The transition we are witnessing among retailers signifies a mindset grounded in strategic decision-making. This evolution comes as they face new economic realities, emphasizing quality locations over sheer quantity. Some of the key takeaways from the ICSC New York event include:

1. Disciplined Expansion Strategies

Retailers are implementing open-to-buy initiatives, and grocery chains are actively seeking new locations using data-backed insights for validation. This trend indicates that retailers prioritize locations where demand is evident and sustainable.

2. The Rise of Value and Discount Retailers

As economic pressures lead consumers to seek cost-effective solutions, value and discount retailers are seeing remarkable growth. This shift offers landlords unique opportunities to adjust their tenant mixes, focusing on categories that respond best to current market conditions.

3. Data-Driven Decision Making

The integration of artificial intelligence and predictive analytics is reshaping how retail decisions are made. Retailers are able to optimize their store spaces more effectively, selecting locations backed by thorough analytics. This empowers landlords to curate tenant mixes with higher accuracy, meeting both consumer needs and business profitability.

4. Limited New Developments

A cautious approach to new retail developments is prevalent in the market. Retailers and developers are taking their time, seeking assurance before launching new projects. This trend emphasizes the need for robust data and market understanding before proceeding.

5. Collaborative Deal Structures

Landlords are becoming more innovative, introducing collaborative arrangements that include rent support, tenant improvement input, and trial arrangements to attract promising concepts. Such strategies help speed up leasing processes while minimizing risks for involved parties.

Kevin Bissell, Senior Vice President of Real Estate Research at CRE 360 Partners, notes, "ICSC New York showcased that there’s tremendous potential in retail real estate. The current landscape creates opportunities for those who can strategically leverage insightful information and act decisively."

Embracing a New Era of Retail

The overall message from the ICSC New York platform is clear: success in retail will favor those who combine foresight with tactical execution. As retailers evolve their strategies amidst supply constraints, those willing to embrace innovation and data-centric practices will likely navigate the future effectively.

At CRE 360 Partners, we remain committed to empowering our clients with data-driven insights and tailored solutions to achieve their growth objectives in the retail sector. For more information on our services, feel free to visit our website at www.cre-360.com.