GRO Retail – the UK’s largest retail property deal-making marketplace – will return in April 2026, bringing together retailers, landlords, agents, developers, investors and public-sector stakeholders for a single day of high-intensity trading and networking.
The Spring Event takes place on 28 April at Old Billingsgate Market in London and will once again act as a central hub for retailers seeking space, landlords marketing availability, and operators looking to accelerate expansion plans.
Its 2025 events delivered more than 1,400 business meetings and connected over 3,000 stakeholders, including more than 1,000 retailers. GRO Retail also hosts GRO Franchise, the UK’s only franchise property event, drawing operators seeking rapid national rollout opportunities.
The 2026 edition will double down on high-value, face-to-face connections while introducing new community-led features designed to speed up deal flow, improve visibility of demand and availability, and support regeneration efforts across UK high streets.
TARGETED NETWORKING
Organisers expect more than 3,400 attendees, including 1,500 retailers, alongside curated business meetings, expert-led sessions and targeted networking designed to help delegates secure sites, tenants and partners more efficiently.
Shelley Batey, Chief Operating Officer at GRO Retail, said: “GRO Retail is the leading forum for the UK retail property market.
“Our events unite decision-makers to connect, exchange insight, and drive new avenues of growth.”
The event is geared towards retailers hunting for flagship locations or first-store openings, and for landlords and agents seeking to place available space directly in front of active occupiers.
“Its format is designed to accelerate deal-making and reduce the time it takes to match opportunity with demand.
Themes set for 2026 include:
- Retail property outlook: Staying resilient amid economic headwinds, shifting consumer spend and rising operating costs.
- Prime locations & flagship stores: Strategies to maximise returns and evolve traditional landlord approaches.
- Flexible & experiential retail: Pop-ups, short-term leases and experiential formats driving new footfall.
- International & franchise growth: New overseas entrants and the acceleration of franchise-led UK expansion.
- Data & analytics: Using AI and predictive metrics to enhance investment decisions.
- Mixed-use development: How the blend of housing, retail and leisure can anchor long-term community value.
