Sporting goods retailers rise as a major drivers of leasing activity in Q1

But F&B players still account for the bulk of demand.

Thanks to F&B players and sporting goods retailers, Singapore's leasing activity is not as severely constrained as it should have been in the past quarter.

According to CBRE Research, sporting goods are performing strongly and is the major driver of leasing demand.

"They are also expanding their online presence," CBRE noted.

F&B players remained the the sector's gem, accounting for the bulk of leasing demand. More groups in this segment are shifting their focus away from shopping centres and are exploring alternative locations such as shophouses, office buildings and industrial buildings.

It was a different story for mid-range fashion retailers, as demand from fast fashion brands was limited with most groups having no expansion plans.

"Retailers in this category are seeking turnover rent agreements but landlords are unwilling to compromise," CBRE explained.

For the said period, luxury groups also registered little movements, spurring less demand from the segment.