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Retail Parks 2008

 

The essential guide to Retail Parks in 2008

Jennifer Creevy, supplement editor

Tough talking

It's no secret that life on the high street is tough at the moment and it's the same story at out-of-town retail parks, with traditional tenants from a wide range of sectors all feeling the pinch.
Top of the castle: Castlepoint in Bournemouth is in first place

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The retail park landscape is changing as tenants put their faith in smaller unit sizes and operators fight the online threat to their businesses. Ben Cooper assesses the state of the market
Open relationship: Nottingham’s Victoria Park has been able to bring in retailers like Next and Argos because of planning rulings

Back to bulk?

The credit crunch is hurting bulky goods retailers, so how are the parks that house them holding up? Liz Morrell reports
Space invader: some bulky goods businesses, such as Dreams, are looking to step into the breach of retail parks

Glimmer of hope

Retail parks may be under the cosh, but some retailers are taking the opportunity to expand. John Ryan reports
Active tenants: retailers such as Homebase and Wickes are still taking sites

Boxing clever

In a difficult market and with big-box units falling out of favour, retail parks are having to find new and innovative ways to operate to maintain investment values. Mark Faithfull looks at how landlords are facing up to some tough decisions
Cafe culture: retail parks are increasingly keen to add food and drink outlets, such as Greggs and Costa

Experience necessary

Retail parks are aiming to become destinations in their own right by broadening the facilities they offer. Katie Daubney reports