The latest retail leasing research in central London reveals a significant increase in investment in the first half of 2025, amounting to £1.6bn.
This marks an increase of 130% year-on-year and has already surpassed the full-year total from 2019, as well as sitting 101% above the 10-year H1 average.
If this momentum continues, Savills estimate that 2025 could exceed £2bn in retail investment, which would mark the highest annual figure since 2018.
Investment is being driven by heightened activity within the Oxford Circus area, including the £63m sale of 149-151 Oxford Street to Chinese toy manufacturer Pop Mart in July, known for creating the viral ‘Labubu’ plush dolls.
Central London Investment associate director Charlie Stoneham said: “We’re seeing a marked resurgence in investor appetite for central London retail, particularly in the West End.”
“The recent uptick in owner-occupier acquisitions also signals a shift in sentiment, with businesses committing to long-term presence in prime retail locations.”
Savills director of research Marie Hickey said: “The scale and quality of development on the street in recent years is delivering best in class retail and office space, all culminating to create compelling investment opportunities that will underpin momentum into the second half of the year.”
No comments yet