How AI is redefining retail real estate in 2026

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the retail landscape, changing how consumers shop, how retailers operate, and how real estate must perform. The Spring 2026 Retail Research Report explores how AI-driven decision-making, fulfillment workflows, and technology infrastructure are redefining the role of the physical store.

Today’s store is no longer just a place to transact. It is becoming a hub for logistics, customer engagement, and data-driven operations. Retailers are increasing technology investment at unprecedented levels, while landlords are rethinking property design to accommodate new infrastructure demands such as 5G connectivity, fulfillment space, and advanced digital systems.

This report examines:

  • How AI is influencing shopper behavior and retail growth
  • Why stores remain central to e-commerce fulfillment
  • What landlords and developers must build to support future retail models
  • How evolving performance metrics are redefining store productivity

Read the full report to understand how technology is transforming the retail environment and what it means for investors, developers, and retailers planning for the future.