Direct-to-consumer brands secured 18 percent of retail leasing space during the first six months of 2025, up from 8 percent in the same period last year, according to CBRE's latest analysis. Fashion and apparel companies dominated this segment with nearly 60 percent of agreements, while homeware and jewelry each claimed 12 percent. These digital-first retailers are expanding beyond online platforms through popup stores, flagship locations and franchise operations across multiple formats.
High street locations attracted 46 percent of direct-to-consumer leasing activity, surpassing traditional mall spaces at 40 percent and standalone outlets at 14 percent. Delhi-NCR led all major cities with 26 percent of retail leasing, followed by Bengaluru at 22 percent and Hyderabad at 18 percent. Physical stores enable brands to build customer trust and reach smaller markets while maintaining their online presence.
High street locations attracted 46 percent of direct-to-consumer leasing activity, surpassing traditional mall spaces at 40 percent and standalone outlets at 14 percent. Delhi-NCR led all major cities with 26 percent of retail leasing, followed by Bengaluru at 22 percent and Hyderabad at 18 percent. Physical stores enable brands to build customer trust and reach smaller markets while maintaining their online presence.
