5 Markets Where Retail Is Poised To Thrive

Austin is the top market for retail’s comeback, according to a new report from CrowdStreet, followed by Charlotte, Nashville, Orlando, and Raleigh-Durham. Retail was the second-hardest hit asset class after hotels, as most retail operators—except grocery stores—continued to reel from the effects of COVID-19 shutdowns and slowed foot traffic. Further consolidation is also expected for the industry, especially as brick-and-mortar retail reimagines its future in the wake of the pandemic. CrowdStreet predicts the best-located centers will continue to backfill vacancies wrought by COVID-related store closures, and those tenants who remain will likely look to upgrade their physical footprint. But there’s also some good news afoot for retail. Read more at Globe St.