EP60 - Gen Z, AI, and the mall: What’s driving retail real estate’s next golden age
Retail real estate is back, and it looks nothing like the past. We sit down with Brandon Isner, Head of Retail Research at Newmark, to celebrate retail’s emergence as one of the most compelling asset classes in 2025. From Gen Z’s interest in in-person shopping to the role of AI in optimizing operations and experiences, we break down the factors fueling a potential golden age for retail.
Also in this episode:
The long-term impact of historically low new construction
How malls are evolving into multi-purpose lifestyle hubs
The rise of tech-enabled, omni-channel retail strategies
What market participants should be watching for in retail performance and tenant mix
Tune in to our latest episode to keep pace with one of the fastest-evolving CRE segments.
Resources Mentioned:
What the biggest names in tech, media, and retail are saying about the future of commerce -
Key moments
01:23 Brandon's career journey
04:11 Role at Newmark and current projects
06:40 North American Research Group and ICSC
09:27 Retail sector's uniqueness and challenges
14:38 Impact of e-commerce and brick-and-mortar synergy
17:54 Warehouse clubs and superstores
22:25 The future of department stores
25:56 The resilience of malls
26:33 Generational shifts in shopping habits
28:25 The role of management and finance in mall success
31:43 Investment trends in retail real estate
36:46 The golden era of retail
38:04 The impact of generative AI on retail
42:12 Final thoughts and industry wishes
This week's guest and host
Brandon Isner
Head of Retail Research
Newmark
Cole Perry
Associate Director of Research
