The retail real estate market is heating up in 2025 with major developments creating opportunities for brokers and investors. From Dollar Tree’s potential Family Dollar sale to insights on high-performing retail markets and Apple’s leadership change, here’s the latest on retail real estate trends and commercial real estate opportunities.

Dollar Tree Considers Selling Family Dollar: A Shift in Retail Properties

Dollar Tree is exploring a significant move by putting its Family Dollar chain up for sale, with JPMorgan Chase leading the effort. Acquired in 2015 for $8.5 billion, Family Dollar accounts for about 8,000 of Dollar Tree’s 15,000+ U.S. stores. This potential divestiture could release a wave of retail properties into the market, opening doors for sales or leases. For brokers, this shift in the discount retail sector presents prime commercial real estate opportunities. Keep an eye on how this impacts retail real estate trends in your area.

Top Retail Markets to Watch in 2025

Where are the hottest retail markets in 2025? Cities like Miami, driven by population growth and tourism, stand out as key players. Tampa and Orlando also rank high, fueled by similar dynamics, while Providence, Rhode Island, and Raleigh, North Carolina, show strength due to steady demand and limited new supply. These top retail markets highlight where brokers and investors can find leasing potential and investment growth. Identifying these regions can help you guide clients toward the best commercial real estate opportunities this year.

Apple’s New Global Store Leader: Implications for Retail Expansion

Apple has tapped Julie Myrtil as its new global store leader, succeeding Deirdre O’Brien after her 35-year run. With experience at LVMH and Zara, Myrtil now oversees Apple’s 530 stores worldwide. Known for cutting-edge designs and top-tier customer experiences, Apple’s retail presence sets a standard in the industry. This leadership change could signal new store openings or redesigns, offering brokers a chance to collaborate with a global leader. Watch how this transition shapes retail real estate opportunities moving forward.

More Retail Real Estate Updates

• Target’s Holiday Hiring Surge: Target is hiring 100,000 seasonal workers, underscoring the importance of physical stores in its omnichannel approach. This move highlights retail real estate’s ongoing relevance.
• Walgreens Store Closures: Walgreens Boots Alliance plans to close 1,200 locations over three years to streamline its footprint. These closures could free up prime retail spaces for redevelopment—a trend worth tracking.

Why These Trends Matter for Brokers in 2025

The retail real estate landscape is full of potential in 2025. Dollar Tree’s possible Family Dollar sale could transform the discount retail market, while thriving retail markets point to high-growth areas for investment. Apple’s leadership shift, Target’s hiring push, and Walgreens’ store adjustments reflect a sector in flux. For brokers, these changes mean fresh opportunities—whether through property deals, leasing, or repositioning. Staying on top of retail real estate trends is essential to delivering value in this fast-moving market.

Ready to seize these commercial real estate opportunities? Contact us at Brokers International for expert support in navigating the 2025 market.