Published on Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Access our latest property investment summary by completing the form below.
Retailers are expanding more selectively into high-performing secondary markets while optimizing store footprints and tenant mix for long-term growth.
LAS VEGAS—Retailers are becoming more selective in both market expansion and store sizing as consumer demand shifts toward quality-driven apparel and more balanced retail environments. That is according to Spencer Jordan, senior vice president of leasing at Steiner + Associates.
During coverage of ICSC Las Vegas, Jordan told GlobeSt.com that the apparel sector is seeing growing momentum around what he described as the "modern American wardrobe," with consumers prioritizing quality, versatility and fit over fast-moving fashion trends.
"While athleisure remains strong, there's growing demand for more refined, everyday staples," Jordan said.
At Easton Town Center, for example, Jordan said brands including Todd Snyder, Peter Millar, Buck Mason, SKIMS, and Faherty have expanded into the market as retailers look beyond major coastal cities and focus on high-performing secondary markets.
"These brands are highly selective in where they plant their flag," she said. "They're choosing specific markets and who they want to be alongside, rather than expanding everywhere."
Jordan also noted that rising rents and tightening availability are forcing retailers to become more strategic with store footprints.
"As space becomes more limited and rents continue to rise, retailers are being more thoughtful about how they use square footage," she said, adding that many brands are increasingly focused on "right sizing" locations to maximize efficiency without taking on unnecessary space.
From a leasing perspective, Jordan said landlords are taking a longer-term approach to merchandising and space planning, often coordinating future opportunities years in advance as square footage becomes available.
She added that diversification across retail categories remains critical to maintaining consistent property performance.
"We focus on building the right merchandise mix so we're not relying on any one category," Jordan said. "When you have a range from dining to apparel to service, one can pick up the slack when another slows down."
Check back with GlobeSt.com for more as we lead up to the event and check out the stories below you might have missed.
Randi Zuckerberg at ICSC Las Vegas 2026: Perseverance Triumphs Planning in Business
Retail Real Estate's New Playbook Emerges at ICSC Las Vegas 2026
ICSC Las Vegas Preview: 'Frictional Leasing' Reshapes Hunt for Prime Retail Space
Grocery-Anchored Centers Loosen Rules to Backfill Empty Space
Retail Investors Shift Focus to Reliable Returns and Tight Supply
Capital Returns to Shopping Centers as Market Conditions Improve
Neighborhood Retail Gains Momentum Ahead of ICSC Las Vegas
Retail Real Estate Shifts Toward Smaller Stores and Prime Locations