June 29, 2023

Adapting to the E-Commerce Era: Strategies for Retailers, Commercial Real Estate Owners, and Brokers to Thrive in the Digital Age

Author: John Orr CCIM

If you are involved in the field of commercial real estate, it’s important to stay informed on the latest industry trends, particularly those that are impacting brick-and-mortar retail. One trend that has been making a significant impact in recent years is e-commerce. The rise of online retailers and marketplaces has forced traditional brick-and-mortar retailers to adapt and evolve to remain competitive.

When it comes to the impact of e-commerce on commercial real estate, it’s essential to consider both the negative and positive effects. As more and more consumers turn to online shopping, brick-and-mortar retailers are facing a decline in foot traffic and sales. This has led to a decrease in demand for commercial real estate, as well as a decrease in the value of these properties. This is particularly true for regional malls, which have been hit particularly hard by the shift to e-commerce.

However, it’s not all bad news for commercial real estate. Some retailers have found ways to adapt and thrive in this new retail landscape. For example, retailers now use their physical locations as showrooms, where customers can see and touch products before purchasing them online. This “omnichannel” approach allows retailers to create a unique, personalized shopping experience that combines the brick-and-mortar with the digital. Retailers are leveraging their physical locations to offer services and experiences that cannot be found online, such as personal styling, repair services, workshops, and other events.

Another way that e-commerce is impacting commercial real estate is through the rise of last-mile delivery. With the increase in online shopping, there is a growing demand for warehouses and distribution centers close to population centers. This is helping to drive demand for commercial real estate in urban areas, particularly for properties that can be easily converted into warehouses.

Overall, it’s clear that e-commerce has had a significant impact on commercial real estate and brick-and-mortar retail. As a professional in this field, it’s important to stay informed on these trends and understand the implications for the industry. While e-commerce has led to a decline in demand for commercial real estate, it has also opened up new opportunities for retailers to innovate and adapt. As e-commerce continues to grow, it will be crucial for commercial real estate professionals to stay informed and adapt to these changes in order to remain competitive in the market. The key is to understand how e-commerce is impacting the commercial real estate market and to be able to identify opportunities for growth and development. To learn more about this shifting commercial real estate landscape, contact an Expert today!