While the economic outlook is slowly brightening, some clouds remain over the retail sector, and if retailers aren’t thriving, investors aren’t thriving either. Online shopping is increasing and secondary precincts continue to struggle. On the other hand prime precinct vacancy remains low. In areas experiencing population growth, the resultant increased demand for retail goods will lead to rental increases over time. Auckland retail vacancy rates Overall retail vacancy is 3.4% in Auckland, down from 5.4% in June 2011. Overall vacancy in the Auckland retail market has remained virtually constant over the past year, up ... (full story)