India's retail leasing market surges 20% in first half of 2026

In the first six months of 2026, India's organized retail leasing market recorded a 20% increase over the same period last year, totaling around 3.9 million sq ft of space. The growth came amid broader economic caution, with CBRE highlighting retailer expansion and upcoming Grade A developments as key drivers. Nearly 0.9 million sq ft of new supply opened, all located in the Delhi-NCR region, and fashion and apparel tenants claimed roughly 40% of the total take-up.

Food & beverage and entertainment sectors followed with 14% and 9% shares, while jewellery, homeware, and consumer electronics each contributed about 7% and 6%. Domestic retailers performed over 70% of the leasing, and direct-to-consumer brands made up about 28% of activity. The report also notes strong institutional investment and anticipates that expanding metro networks and ring roads will broaden catchment areas, encouraging more experience-focused and mixed-use retail projects.