Romania’s Modern Retail Sector Expands, But Still Under 5 Million m²

Romania’s modern retail market continues to grow, yet recent industry data suggest it has not quite reached 5 million square metres of leasable retail space. According to a market update in Q3 2025, the latest credible estimate for modern retail stock stands at about 4.75 million m². 

The growth trend remains robust: despite economic headwinds, developers have continued expanding retail infrastructure. According to Colliers, new deliveries and ongoing projects reflect rising demand, especially from non-food retail and discount chains, and a shift toward retail parks and mixed-use formats. 

Still, retail density — the amount of modern retail per capita — remains well below levels seen in several neighbouring countries. This suggests a sizable gap between current supply and potential demand, which may attract further retail investment. 

Given this context, many analysts view Romania as a market with significant upside, especially outside the main metropolitan areas. Smaller cities and regional centres appear as promising candidates for new retail developments in the coming years.

Source: Colliers