Hey everyone, we wanted to flag a recent CBRE report on 2025 retail rent dynamics that offers a really grounded perspective on how e-commerce is truly impacting our storefront leases. The big takeaway for us is that while the "e-commerce kills retail" narrative is oversimplified, landlords are still in a strong position in many areas. This isn't just about online sales; it’s also about limited supply of good retail spaces and the fact that many of our businesses are doing more sales per square foot than before. This report helps us understand where we stand, especially if you're mid-lease or eyeing a renewal.

What this means practically is that we can't always rely on the general market sentiment that e-commerce is weakening our landlords' hands. For many of us, especially in sectors that are thriving and in areas with limited new construction, landlords still have the upper hand when it comes to rent increases or lease terms. The report does hint at specific sectors and locations where tenants might find more leverage, so it’s worth digging into if you’re approaching negotiations. Understanding these nuances can help us prepare for discussions, whether it's about renewal terms, expansion, or even just understanding our current rent's context.

So, as we navigate our leases, let's remember that our individual business performance and the local market supply are often bigger drivers of rent dynamics than the broad stroke of e-commerce. It’s a good reminder to focus on the specifics of our own situation and local market when negotiating. We’d love to hear from those of you who have recently negotiated a renewal or new lease – what factors did you find most influential? Share your experiences in the forum.