Indian retail property is back strong. Leasing hit 5.7 million sq ft in early 2025. This is a 69% increase from last year. JLL reported these numbers. Delhi-NCR and Bengaluru led the second quarter. NCR saw big gains in food, jewelry, and foreign stores.
Delhi-NCR was a busy retail hub. It leased 0.53 million sq ft in Q2. Bengaluru was just ahead. These two cities made up half the country’s leasing. NCR’s growth came from food and drink demand. This sector took 22% of local leases.
Experiential retail is returning. Premium areas in Gurugram are now social hubs. They offer fun, activities, and easy parking. Brands want this advantage. Gurugram and Noida have rich areas. This growth in leasing makes sense. Brands want to be there.
Good retail space is key. India added 165% more malls this year. NCR gained much new space. Large malls opened there. Q2 leasing dropped slightly from Q1. New mall openings slowed for a bit. Yet, H1 leasing reached 70% of 2024’s total.
This isn’t a quick boost. It’s the new standard. Brands see India’s retail future. NCR has good roads and spending power. Lifestyles fit well here. Leasing will stay strong. Big malls and street shops will drive more growth. Brands plan for the long term.
13 foreign brands opened in India last quarter. Most were in food and drink. Food is a lifestyle choice. NCR was their main launch spot. High incomes, varied food, and good dining experiences drive this. Young Indians want global food and fashion. Brands skip small tests. They open big stores in NCR.
NCR offers a unique chance. Other city markets are full. Faridabad is a good option. It has more land available. These cities let brands create new shopping experiences. It’s more than selling products. Shopping is becoming leisure. NCR developers meeting these needs are leading the way.