Retail Supply Growth and Uptake Signal Investment Flows Across West-Nederland

In West-Nederland, including Nieuw-West, the supply of retail space in Noord- and Zuid-Holland rose 5 percent during 2025 while uptake in the first nine months ran 26 percent above the five-year average, according to figures compiled for the Capgemini retail trends report.

These numbers matter now because they arrive as retailers weigh physical expansion against digital channels and as landlords seek tenants who can meet new consumer expectations on price and values. The shift in available space and the quicker absorption of that space together mark a clear flow of investment into bricks-and-mortar locations rather than a broad retreat from them.

Physical stores still drive purchases

The Retail Buying Study 2025 recorded that 62 percent of Dutch consumers complete their purchases inside physical shops even though 68 percent begin their search online. That split keeps footfall relevant for landlords who have added new square metres this year. In Nieuw-West the same pattern appears in daily trading, where shoppers move between neighbourhood high streets and larger centres without abandoning either.

Artificial intelligence ranks as the leading trend shaping the sector. Fifty-three percent of consumers say they have bought an item after receiving a generative-AI recommendation. Retailers who integrate these tools into both their websites and in-store displays report steadier conversion rates, which in turn supports longer lease commitments and fresh capital outlays on fit-outs.

Price transparency and hybrid expectations

Transparency and sustainability now set the baseline for buyers. Forty-four percent of shoppers choose private-label goods over national brands when value is clearer. At the same time the line between online and offline continues to fade. Consumers expect to start a purchase on a phone, collect it in store or return it without friction, a pattern described in the Lightspeed retail-trends overview.

Landlords and operators who adapt to these habits are attracting the investment flows visible in the 2025 uptake numbers. Those who do not risk longer vacancy periods even as overall supply has grown only modestly.

Operators can track the same indicators by monitoring quarterly vacancy reports from NVM Business and by testing AI-driven recommendation tools against their existing customer data. Stores that combine clear pricing, sustainable sourcing and seamless online-to-offline options are positioned to capture the continued demand shown in the first nine months of last year.

This article is general information only and is not personal financial or investment advice. Consider your own circumstances and seek licensed professional advice before making financial decisions.