Newmark Predicts Surge in International Brand Openings in France Ahead of SIEC 2025
With the SIEC retail property event in France approaching, consultancy Newmark has released market analysis indicating a positive trend for international brand openings. The firm forecasts more retail space inaugurations in 2026 than in 2025, driven by strong demand from global players targeting French prime locations. This article examines the key factors behind this growth, the outlook for the French retail property market, and what it means for landlords and investors.
As the SIEC (Salon International de l'Immobilier Commercial) – France's flagship event for the retail property sector – draws near, leading consultancy Newmark has shared its latest market analysis. According to the firm, the outlook for international brand openings in France is robust, with more new store inaugurations expected in 2026 than in 2025. This positive forecast underscores the resilience and attractiveness of the French retail property market, particularly in prime urban locations.
The announcement comes at a pivotal moment, as SIEC serves as a barometer for industry sentiment and future investment. Newmark's analysis points to a sustained demand from international retailers seeking to establish or expand their presence in France, driven by factors such as the country's strong consumer market, tourism appeal, and the availability of high-quality retail spaces in cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille.
Key Drivers of International Brand Openings
According to Newmark, several factors are fueling the anticipated rise in international brand store openings in France. First, the recovery of the retail sector post-pandemic has been stronger than expected, with consumers returning to physical stores and luxury spending remaining robust. Second, France's position as a global fashion and luxury hub continues to attract premium and international brands, especially in the ready-to-wear, accessories, and beauty segments.
Additionally, the consultancy highlights that landlords and property owners are becoming more flexible in lease terms and store formats, making it easier for international brands to secure prime locations. This includes shorter lease durations, turnover-based rents, and co-investment in fit-outs, which reduce the upfront costs for new entrants.
Market Outlook for 2026
Newmark's forecast for 2026 indicates a higher number of international brand openings compared to 2025. This positive trend is supported by a pipeline of projects in key retail corridors, including the Champs-Élysées, Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, and major shopping centres in the Île-de-France region. The data suggests that the French retail property market is entering a new cycle of growth, driven by both luxury and mid-market international brands.
The consultancy also notes that while Paris remains the primary target due to its international visibility and tourist traffic, regional cities are also seeing increased interest. Cities such as Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Nice are benefiting from improved transport links and a growing base of affluent consumers, making them attractive secondary markets for international retailers.
Implications for the SIEC Meeting
At SIEC, industry professionals will have the opportunity to discuss these developments in detail. Newmark's analysis will likely be a central topic, as it provides a data-driven perspective on the direction of the market. For landlords and investors, the message is clear: the appetite for prime retail space among international brands is strong, and those who can adapt to evolving retailer needs will be best positioned to capitalise on this demand.
In summary, Newmark's forecast of more international brand openings in 2026 than in 2025 signals a healthy and dynamic French retail property market. With SIEC just around the corner, this analysis offers an optimistic outlook for the sector, backed by concrete data on leasing activity and retailer expansion plans. Stakeholders attending the event will be keen to explore how they can leverage this trend for future growth.
