Mumbai: ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026 highlights that retail absorption across India’s top 7 cities reached approximately 4.3 million sq. ft. in H2 2025, reflecting steady leasing momentum despite a dynamic macroeconomic environment.
The findings from ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026 indicate that India’s retail real estate sector is undergoing a structural transformation, shifting from transactional retail to experience-driven formats.
According to ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026, apparel emerged as the leading contributor to leasing demand, followed by entertainment, hypermarkets/supermarkets, and food & beverages.
This trend underscores the growing consumer preference for experiential retail environments that offer engagement beyond traditional shopping.
“India’s retail real estate story is entering its most exciting chapter yet,” said Anuj Kejriwal, CEO – Retail & CEO – EMEA, ANAROCK Group.
“RELEAP 2026 captures a sector that has moved decisively beyond square footage and rental metrics — it’s now about delivering experiences that consumers cannot find online.”
The ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026 report, which tracks trends across India’s top seven cities, points to a market that is evolving rapidly, with increasing sophistication in demand patterns and retail strategies.
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Steady Leasing Momentum in H2 2025
As per ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026, total retail absorption stood at around 4.3 million sq. ft. in the second half of 2025. This reflects sustained retailer confidence in physical retail formats and a long-term commitment to brick-and-mortar expansion.
Demand remained robust across key categories. Apparel led leasing activity, followed by entertainment, hypermarkets/supermarkets, and food & beverages.
The insights from ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026 reinforce the shift towards retail spaces that prioritize consumer engagement, experience, and purpose.
Mid-sized store formats ranging from 1,000 to 5,000 sq. ft. dominated transactions. The ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026 report notes that these formats offer an optimal balance between operational efficiency and brand visibility, making them the preferred choice for retailers navigating cost pressures.
ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026: Supply Pipeline Remains Strong; NCR and Hyderabad Lead
On the supply side, ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026 reveals a robust development pipeline. Delhi NCR and Hyderabad together account for nearly 70% of upcoming retail supply, indicating strong developer confidence in these high-growth markets.
The report highlights a growing focus on destination-format malls and mixed-use developments. As outlined in ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026, these developments integrate retail, dining, entertainment, and wellness to create holistic consumer destinations aligned with evolving preferences.
Diverse Demand Trends Across Key Cities
The ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026 report emphasizes the diversity of India’s retail landscape, with each city demonstrating unique demand drivers.
NCR and MMR recorded strong traction in apparel and entertainment-led leasing, reflecting high footfall and aspirational consumption patterns. Meanwhile, Hyderabad and Bengaluru saw increased participation from anchor-driven segments such as hypermarkets and family entertainment centres (FECs), indicating the rise of community-centric retail ecosystems.
Chennai continued to witness demand skewed toward discretionary categories like apparel and jewellery. Insights from ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026 suggest that regional consumer behaviour, infrastructure, and demographics play a crucial role in shaping retail strategies.
High Streets Gain Momentum Amid Limited Mall Supply
A key highlight of ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026 is the growing prominence of high-street retail. During H2 2025, several high-street micro-markets recorded strong rental appreciation, supported by limited availability in premium malls.
The report notes that brands across fashion, luxury, and F&B are increasingly turning to high streets as an alternative expansion route. ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026 indicates that constrained vacancy levels in Grade A malls are pushing retailers to explore high-street formats to sustain growth and market presence.
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In contrast, mall rentals remained largely stable, with selective growth observed in top-performing assets. The findings of ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026 suggest that malls must increasingly differentiate through curated experiences, tenant mix, and destination appeal.
Outlook: Strong Growth Trajectory Ahead
According to ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026, India’s retail real estate sector is well-positioned for sustained growth. A strong pipeline of institutional-grade developments, evolving retailer strategies, and improving consumption trends are expected to drive long-term expansion.
The report concludes that a rising middle class and a maturing organized retail ecosystem will continue to provide structural support, reinforcing the sector’s growth trajectory as outlined in ANAROCK Retail RELEAP 2026.
