London most attractive market for internatio​nal retailers

London is the most attractive location for international retailers, based on the presence of the top 250 international retailers in the key European retail markets. According to retail property specialist Jones Lang LaSalle, major European cities

are first ports of call for international retailers, and London, which is a particularly retail friendly market, leads for many as the springboard to Europe.

Other European cities successfully attracting international retailers include the core established retailer markets of Paris, Milan, Madrid, Rome and Munich. A pick-up in retailer expansion has also been observed recently in other regional cities in Germany and the Benelux countries. After entering core major markets, retailers are selectively expanding into regional cities, then into growth markets.

Emerging growth markets of Moscow, St Petersburg, Warsaw and Instanbul are burgeoning successes. With a subdued growth outlook for some Western markets, Eastern Europe provides some attractive expansion opportunities for retailers with established and successful retail business.

London currently has the highest presence of international retailers across Europe, followed by Paris, Moscow, Milan and Madrid. Italy, driven by luxury, is the largest exporter of retail fascias across the key retail cities in Europe.

Zara, H&M and Mango have the greatest retailer coverage across Europe. Guess and Calzedonia are amongst the most expansive retailers.

Paris commands the highest rents for international markets, followed by Zurich and London. London tops the luxury rental table, followed by Paris and Moscow.

Chinese retailers are also targeting London to open stores this year, as the capital remains a top shopping destination despite the difficult economic outlook.

Image: Bond Street