Romania modern retail space exceeds 5 million square meters

Romania's modern retail sector has surpassed 5 million square meters of commercial space, marking a significant transformation over the last 30 years. According to an analysis by Colliers, the market has evolved from a landscape dominated by traditional markets and general stores in 1996 to a sophisticated network of malls, retail parks, and international brands.

Despite this growth, the report indicates that Romania still has significant room for expansion. The country currently has approximately 270 square meters of modern retail per 1,000 inhabitants, which is notably lower than the 400–500 square meters found in Central European markets such as Hungary, Poland, and the Czech Republic.

Colliers estimates that approximately 150,000 square meters of new commercial space will be delivered in 2026. Future growth potential is expected to be particularly strong in small and medium-sized cities as consumer purchasing power continues to rise and the real estate market matures.