In partnership with

The Real Estate Professional’s Secret Weapon - Land id™

Discover extensive nationwide private parcel data, create & showcase powerful, shareable, interactive maps of any property: Fast, Easy and Mobile, with Land id™.

With the brand new streamlined Property Info Cards, Land id™ brings industry leading data and contextual layers to the forefront in a single tap or swipe.

Try Free For 7 Days Today

How the £2 Billion Shopping Mall Boom in 2024 is Shaping 2025

2024 marked a stunning turnaround for shopping malls, with over £2 billion invested in the UK retail sector. But what does this mean for 2025 and beyond? Let’s break it down.

A Look Back: 2024’s Retail Real Estate Comeback

Last year, shopping malls staged one of the biggest comebacks in real estate. After years of uncertainty, over £2 billion poured into the UK’s retail real estate sector—the highest investment since 2016.

Investors backed malls like Liverpool One and the Trafford Centre, which had thriving foot traffic and next-to-zero vacancies.

But that was last year. Now, as we step deeper into 2025, the real question is: Will the retail revival continue?

2025: Where Are We Heading?
Here’s why shopping malls still matter:

1. Demand is Here to Stay: In 2024, institutions made up 70% of retail investment—a signal of long-term confidence. As those investments mature in 2025, we’re seeing expansions, renovations, and innovation in mall spaces to keep customers coming back.

2. Malls as Experiences: The focus on dining, entertainment, and experiences, which began last year, is gaining steam. More shopping centres are blending retail with lifestyle, making them more than just a place to shop.

3. Economic Optimism: Despite some economic uncertainty, consumer spending is holding strong, supporting mall activity in early 2025.

2025 and Beyond: Opportunities for Investors
For investors, 2024 proved that retail real estate wasn’t dead—it was just evolving. Here’s why 2025 might be the perfect time to jump in:

1. High Yields on Prime Assets: Malls in key locations continue to deliver strong rental returns, especially as foot traffic grows post-renovation.

2. Smaller Cities Are the New Frontier: While major cities dominate the narrative, smaller urban centres are showing growth potential as retailers expand beyond traditional hotspots.

3. Sustainability Drives Innovation: More malls are integrating green initiatives, which appeal to tenants and shoppers alike. Sustainability is quickly becoming a differentiator in the retail space.

Conclusion: Malls Are Back, and 2025 Is Their Year to Prove It

2024’s retail revival set the stage, but 2025 will determine if the £2 billion investment was just a one-off or the start of a long-term trend. If malls continue to adapt—prioritizing experiences, sustainability, and smart tenant strategies—they could be the surprise winner of 2025’s real estate market.