2026 Retail & Restaurant Real Estate Report

This comprehensive outlook from Buxton explores how constrained supply, rising costs, and shifting consumer behavior are redefining retail and restaurant expansion in 2026. 

Learn why high-growth markets don’t guarantee success, how demand varies by category and location, and where overlooked opportunities are emerging. 

The guide breaks down key trends shaping site selection, including smaller formats, secondary markets, and evolving trade areas. It also highlights why brands must prioritize precision over pace — using customer-led insights and analytics to validate decisions, reduce risk, and confidently identify locations where their concept is most likely to succeed.