Surge in Retail Leasing: India's Shopping Spaces Booming

Retail leasing activity in India's leading urban centers registered a significant uptick, spiking 69% in the first half of 2025, as per JLL India. A total of 5.7 million sq ft of retail space was taken up in shopping malls and high streets, indicating a robust demand from domestic and foreign retailers.

The supply of new retail spaces more than doubled, reaching 2.3 million sq ft in the first six months of 2025, compared to 0.9 million sq ft the previous year. This growth spans seven cities, including Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, and Mumbai, according to a Wednesday statement from JLL India.

Experts at JLL India forecast that retail leasing could exceed 10 million sq ft in 2025, highlighting India's strategic appeal for retail expansion due to favorable demographics and economic conditions. Industry leaders note increasing interest from both domestic and international brands in acquiring prime retail locations.

(With inputs from agencies.)