Panellists David Atkins, CEO of Hammerson Plc, Heino Vink, COO of Multi Corporation, Peter Wilhelm, CEO of Wilhelm & Co and Peter Todd, Executive Director at Resolution Property discussed the different elements that make the retail real estate sector the backbone of the European economy, as well as the importance of offering sustainable retail models, the different regulations for Sunday trading in Europe and the future of high street retail.
Moderated by Art Patnaude, Real Estate Correspondent at The Wall Street Journal, the debate highlighted the main points of ICSC’s report “The socio-economic contribution of European Shopping Centres” which explains the economic, social and environmental contribution of the shopping centre industry to the EU economy.
ICSC’s Executive Vice-President, Mike Morrissey said “As this report demonstrates, the retail industry is a central pillar of Europe’s economy, providing jobs, urban regeneration and centres for our communities,” said Mike Morrissey, ICSC’s executive vice president, who heads up the organization’s global operations. “The retail and shopping center industry has provided critical economic support during some very tough times in recent years, and is playing an equally critical role in Europe’s recovery and future prosperity. The importance of this industry to Europe’s economic wellbeing cannot be overemphasized.”
To read the full report please click here.
Source: International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC)
