Event-driven shopping and “retailtainment” trends reshaping Metro Vancouver’s retail landscape
Event-driven shopping, from Swifties to FIFA, reshaping region’s retail landscape
In Metro Vancouver, stakeholders are turning to event-driven shopping and “retailtainment” to revitalize the retail landscape as urban foot-traffic lags behind and suburban vacancies remain high. According to a recent report by Colliers Canada, the demand for “warm-shell” space is on the rise in the region.
Warm-shell space, which requires minimal buildout and is ready for tenants to customize, is becoming increasingly popular among retailers, especially food and beverage operators. Susan Thompson, associate director at Colliers Canada, noted that tenants prefer spaces that are mostly ready for occupancy as it reduces the time and costs associated with finishing the space.
In addition to warm-shell spaces, “retailtainment” is also gaining traction in retail developments. Indoor recreational activities such as pickleball, trampoline parks, and mini-golf are being incorporated to create a more vibrant shopping environment. This trend is driven by the desire for experiences and the convenience of combining errands into a smaller radius closer to home.
The scarcity of developable sites in Greater Vancouver has led retail landlords to incorporate retail into residential and mixed-use developments to capitalize on density. This shift towards suburban and transit nodes is further fueled by the increase in remote work and the preference for shopping closer to home.
Event-driven shopping is also making a significant impact on the region’s retail sector, with spikes in spending reported during major events like Taylor Swift’s Eras tour and upcoming events like the Invictus Games and the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches. These events are expected to boost retail sales and drive foot traffic in the region.
Despite stable vacancies and rental rates, CBRE Limited noted that consumer spending on non-essential or luxury items may weaken in the coming years. However, regional population growth and tourism influx are expected to provide a positive outlook for Vancouver’s retail sector.
Overall, the retail landscape in Metro Vancouver is evolving to meet the changing needs and preferences of consumers, with a focus on creating engaging shopping experiences and maximizing the potential of retail spaces in the region.
