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As 2024 draws to a close, we’re celebrating an incredible year at Mallcomm-a year of growth, innovation, and collaboration. From empowering property teams to achieve more, to helping tenants and retailers thrive, this year has been all about strengthening connections and driving results in commercial real estate. 

Let’s take a look back at the milestones we’ve achieved, the trends that have shaped the industry, and what’s on the horizon for 2025.

2024: A Year of Big Wins

This year, Mallcomm made waves across the commercial real estate landscape, delivering game-changing solutions and working hand-in-hand with clients to tackle the industry’s biggest challenges.

• Revolutionised Our Platform: We rolled out exciting new features, like our Data Insights Platform and Sales Collection Portal, designed with property teams in mind, our new tools make life easier by centralizing data, connecting tenants seamlessly, and elevating the occupier experience.
• Expanded Globally: With new partnerships across the globe. Mallcomm continued its mission to transform property management worldwide. Our solutions are now empowering more clients than ever across a range of portfolios.

• Championing Sustainability: ESG is no longer just a buzzword; it’s a business imperative. This year, we helped properties integrate energy-tracking tools, optimise operations for sustainability, and make measurable progress toward green goals.
• Celebrating Client Success: We’ve been privileged to work with over +1000 assets, helping them achieve everything from smoother tenant engagement to significant cost savings. Watching our clients succeed has been the highlight of our year.

Our CEO, David Fuller-Watts shares:

“It feels like 2024 has gone by in a blur. When I think back to predictions we were making last year in the industry it seems most of them have happened or are continuing the trend. AI is certainly an important factor in how technology is enhancing real estate operations and I was pleased to release our own AI powered data tools in H2 this year. This is a big step forward in retail real estate and we’re excited by the opportunities AI will bring. 

It will be interesting to see the changes that the new governments bring to the economy. Both the UK and US have seen shifting mindsets and real estate always seems to be impacted by macroeconomic factors. One thing is for sure, that property management operations will not get easier in 2025. New legislation in the UK with Martyn’s Law will require buildings and destinations to think more about the tools at their disposal and how technology can help prove that management teams are helping to keep people safe. The acquisition of MyTAG earlier this year has added a number of tools to the Mallcomm suite of products and we’re thrilled to be continuing to bring our market leading platform to our European and North American customers. 

With an exciting roadmap being delivered in 2025, at Mallcomm we are looking forward to continuing to offer our customers and the industry the products they need to be successful and empower those that work in our buildings.”

2024 Industry Trends: Challenges, Growth, and Innovation

Commercial real estate showed its resilience and creativity this year. Here’s what stood out:

• The Revival of Brick-and-Mortar: Malls and shopping centers proved they’re more than just places to shop-they’re vibrant community hubs. Events, experiences, and hybrid retail models brought physical spaces back into focus.
• Seamless Communication Became Essential: With more complex portfolios and tenant needs, communication platforms like Mallcomm took center stage, simplifying interactions and helping teams stay aligned.
• Tech Took the Lead: Data-driven decisions and digital tools transformed property management. With real-time insights and automation, teams have been able to work smarter, not harder.

2025: The Future Is Bright

What’s next? As we look ahead to 2025, the opportunities for innovation and growth in commercial real estate are immense. Here’s where we see the industry heading:

• Sharper Data Insights
  Leveraging real-time data to drive smarter decisions will be a game-changer. Mallcomm will continue to lead the charge with tools that help you manage properties more effectively.
• Next-Level Tenant Experiences
  Creating deeper connections through personalised communication and engagement will be a top priority. Happy tenants mean long-term success.
• Hybrid Spaces, Happy Communities From flexible leasing models to creating mixed-use spaces, properties will focus on becoming central to the communities they serve-and Mallcomm will make sure they can manage it all seamlessly.

Thank You for an Incredible 2024!

This year, we’ve been amazed by the creativity, resilience, and forward-thinking spirit of our clients and partners. Your commitment to driving the industry forward is what inspires us to innovate and improve.

As we enter 2025, we’re more committed than ever to being your partner in success. Whether it’s helping you streamline operations, strengthen tenant relationships, or achieve sustainability goals, Mallcomm is here to make it happen.

Here’s to a new year of innovation, growth, and opportunity. Let’s create it together.

From all of us at Mallcomm, thank you for being part of our journey-and cheers to an amazing 2025!

Mallcomm, a leading enterprise software solution for property management, has announced the acquisition of MyTAG, a global software and technology company offering solutions for proof of presence, proof of compliance and enhanced security to safeguard people, property and assets.

The acquisition of MyTAG marks a milestone in Mallcomm’s growth strategy, following the recent launch of its Sales Collection and Data Insights Platform earlier this month. MyTAG’s range of innovative products will be integrated into Mallcomm’s enterprise property management platform, which provides a comprehensive suite to improve communication, reduce cost and drive net operating income across commercial property portfolios.

MyTAG specialises in the use of trusted NFC technology to support security teams, facilities management and building managers. Their proprietary technology solution helps manage security at some of the largest and best-known locations across the United Kingdom and the United States, including The Crown Estate, BNP Paribas and CityPoint London. 

David Fuller-Watts, CEO at Mallcomm said: “We are thrilled to welcome MyTAG to the Mallcomm group and bring their product offerings to our evolving platform. The commercial real estate industry is increasingly data-driven, with strong demand for software that optimises operations such as security and compliance which are critical for risk management and the performance of assets. Integrating MyTAG’s proprietary technology into Mallcomm’s platform further establishes us as the premier software solution for managing commercial and mixed-use locations globally.”

Mike George, Founder at MyTAG said: “Having worked alongside David and the Mallcomm team at several of our clients’ properties, this partnership is the natural progression in our journey. Over the last 12-years we have refined MyTAG’s technology to provide a robust solution for property and facilities management. 

As part of Mallcomm, MyTAG will gain a broader reach, allowing us to embed our patented technology even deeper into commercial property management.”

.If you have any questions on this acquisition, please get in touch with your account manager or reach out below.

Mallcomm, a leading enterprise software platform for commercial property management, has launched a new AI-powered sales collection and data insights platform that will enable property owners to collect and analyse all sales data in real-time, increasing and forecasting future rental income. The platform has been developed to support the increased adoption of turnover-based leases by retail, leisure and hospitality businesses in the UK.

The new platform enables property owners to collate and integrate all data on sales volumes and densities on a monthly, weekly or daily basis in one seamless digital process with thousands of occupiers. It allows property owners to instantly see sales and operational performance across all properties, zones, brand categories and individual businesses ensuring that rental levels adjust accurately in line with turnover. 

The data will enable property owners to measure the impact of asset management and enlivenment activities and determine the optimum occupier mix and leasing strategies. The platform also utilises predictive analytics to create seasonal modelling and cash-flow forecasting which will provide a deeper understanding of asset performance and valuation. 

Mallcomm’s new data insights platform also has the capability to collate and analyse a range of operational data including car parking, energy usage, footfall and lease expiries to optimise day-to-day asset management across all retail and all other commercial property asset types. 

The new data analysis function makes Mallcomm the first end-to-end enterprise solution for retail and commercial destinations, allowing management teams to also integrate multiple operations on a single platform including communications, place marketing and enlivenment, security and operations. 

The Mallcomm platform is adopted across more than 1000 commercial destinations globally, spanning more that 500 million sq ft and comprising more than 70,000 individual units.  Its partners include the world’s leading real estate owners and asset managers such as British Land, Hammerson, Oxford Properties and Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield.

“Over the past few years the traditional ‘landlord-tenant’ relationship has been reset as property owners and retailers have had to work much more closely together to attract visitors and deliver a better experience. This new commercial partnership is increasingly based on turnover-linked rents, but this model relies on transparency on both sides and accurate real-time data so assets are managed to optimise sales performance.

Our new AI-powered platform is a game-changer in creating a seamless process for data collection, giving property owners a real-time analysis of sales performance as well as a future forecast. This will inform how an asset is managed, how the retail and leisure mix is curated and help create more dynamic and successful places. It will also unlock a deeper understanding of asset performance and valuations.”

– David Fuller-Watts, CEO, Mallcomm

Discover how our new Data Insights Platform and Sales Collection tools can transform your portfolio performance.

The launch of the CRE Corner Podcast hosted by David Fuller-Watts, marks a space for candid conversations on commercial real estate; the good, the bad and the downright controversial. Whether you’re in the CRE industry or looking to stay ahead of retail trends, rest assured you’ve found your industry corner. 

The first episode of the series kicks off with Stephen Springham, Partner and Head of Retail Research at Knight Frank, discussing the challenges and opportunities the retail sector faces today, and the opportunities to look out for in 2025.

For those of you who prefer the written word over audio, we’ve summed up Stephen’s experience and the key takeaways from his conversation with David below.

Who is Stephen Springham?

Stephen has 32 years in retail, around 20 of which have been in the retail property. Starting out as a retail analyst, which he described as somewhat of a spiritual home, he then moved on to management horizons and verdicts, into retail management consultancy for PWC, later finding a passion in retail research. Now, Stephen Heads up Retail Research at Knight Frank where he’s been for the last 10 years.

Episode #1 Wrapped

Retail Performance in 2024

Stephen begins by weighing in on how retail fared in the first half of 2024 and though it held steady, there’s certainly room for improvement. 

While the key indicators show consumer sentiments are still fragile, despite a slowly recovering economic landscape, retailers have learned from past mistakes and are honing in on streamlined operations for their assets and portfolios. Unsurprisingly, sustainability remains at the forefront of strategies this year.

Sector Trends and the Changing Market

The discussion touches on the hierarchy within retail channels, with retail warehousing leading the pack, followed by food & beverages, with traditional high street shopping closely behind. 

Stephen emphasises that oversupply remains a structural issue in many cities, but prime shopping centres continue to experience high demand, although vacancy rates vary widely depending on the location.

The Role of Government and Policy

As the UK moves into the second half of 2024, the political climate following the general election in the UK comes into play. Both Stephen and David considered whether new policies will influence a true retail revival. Stability, they argue, is key, and while challenges persist, there’s cautious optimism about interest rate cuts and the potential for growth in investment markets.

The Role of Government and Policy

As the UK moves into the second half of 2024, the political climate following the general election in the UK comes into play. Both Stephen and David considered whether new policies will influence a true retail revival. Stability, they argue, is key, and while challenges persist, there’s cautious optimism about interest rate cuts and the potential for growth in investment markets.

The Intersection of Retail and Online

One of the major talking points in this episode is the ongoing debate around the balance between physical stores and online shopping. Stephen highlights that post-pandemic trends show a more pragmatic approach, where retailers recognise the symbiotic relationship between physical locations and online presence. Rather than cannibalising each other, these two elements need to work in tandem to build stronger, more resilient brands.

Leisure and Mixed-Use Developments

Another critical trend discussed is the blending of leisure and retail spaces, with landlords increasingly integrating food and beverage (F&B) outlets, gyms, and coworking spaces to create mixed-use developments. This shift is seen as crucial for the future of retail, turning shopping centres into community hubs. Yet, finding the right balance remains a challenge, experienced by both successful and struggling developments across the UK.

The Growing Concern of Retail Crime

A pressing issue that Stephen and David refer to as a “virus” in the retail world is the alarming rise of retail crime. The ease with which shoplifters operate due to lax enforcement is a major concern for retailers and shopworkers alike. Retailers are losing millions annually, and while efforts are being made, more robust legal measures are still needed to protect businesses.

Sustainability in Retail Real Estate

The conversation concludes with a focus on sustainability in retail real estate. Retail is seen as lagging behind other sectors in implementing sustainable practices, but new builds are leading the way. Stephen explains that retrofitting existing buildings remains a challenge, but forward-thinking retailers like IKEA are already finding strategic ways to make ESG goals work in their favour.

Want to Hear the Full Episode?

 While, we’ve highlighted the key insights from the episode, Stephen and David weren’t shy to say it how it is, which you’ll miss out on without the full audio. From insights on consumer behaviour, retailer survival, and the impact of government policy, to the nuances of mixed-use developments, this episode offers a candid look at the forces shaping the retail world today.

As the US election approaches, CRE leaders are closely watching for potential policy shifts that could impact the industry. But, while the election generates some market uncertainty, the immediate effect on CRE is likely to be minimal. Below are the key areas that CRE leaders should be aware of in the longer term to help protect their assets and portfolios.

Potential Tax Policy Changes

Changes in tax policy are one of the most closely monitored areas for CRE investors during election seasons. A new administration could introduce adjustments to capital gains taxes, corporate tax rates, or property depreciation rules; all of which could influence the CRE landscape. 

A more business-friendly administration might implement tax cuts that spur growth and increase demand for office and industrial spaces, while a government prioritizing social programs may increase taxes on investment gains. While we don’t know who will gain office, key proposals are known.

A glimpse into potential policy changes on tax:

• Harris has proposed increasing the corporate tax rate from 21 to 28 per cent and increasing the capital gains rate to 28 per cent for those making $1 million or more (Commercial Search).
• Trump has called for cutting the corporate tax rate from 21 per cent to a range of 15 to 20 per cent (Commercial Search).

While high tax rates could discourage corporations from developing new properties or expanding existing ones, low corporate taxes, along with incentives such as tax credits for new developments, can stimulate growth and construction. But, this is only one policy voters with a CRE perspective will need to consider.

Combatting the Housing Crisis

Both Harris and Trump’s approach to combatting the housing crisis could significantly affect the CRE industry. While Harris’ approach emphasizes regulation to encourage affordable housing, Trump focuses on deregulation and homeownership incentives. Let’s get into the detail below.

Harris’ plans

• Kamala Harris has indicated her policies will likely align with those of the current Biden administration, focusing on affordable housing and tenant protections. Harris has committed to building 3 million housing units over four years, with tax incentives to encourage developers and local governments to support new construction. 
• There would likely be a push for temporary rent control measures and funding programs to remove regulatory barriers, making it easier to secure permits for development. 

Harris also voiced support for policies that would ban setting rents with algorithmic pricing systems and introduce new regulations for corporate landlords. This follows the Biden-Harris administration’s plan to cap annual rent increases for large landlords at 5% over the next two years.

Trump’s plans

• Donald Trump has signalled a different direction to Harris, with a focus on reducing housing costs by deregulating the housing industry. He aims to dismantle restrictive zoning laws, reduce permitting requirements, and streamline environmental reviews that increase costs for developers. 
• Trump’s policies are designed to promote homeownership through tax incentives and regulatory rollbacks, which could benefit CRE developers involved in residential construction​. 
• He also supports expanding his Opportunity Zone program, providing tax incentives to invest in underserved areas – a potential boom for commercial developers.

Interest Rates and Monetary Policy

While interest rates are controlled by the Federal Reserve, the election can indirectly influence monetary policy through the fiscal stance of the elected government. As a result, CRE leaders should consider how higher interest rates may affect cap rates and property valuations. Here’s how the policies of each party may influence the outlook on interest rates:

Under a Harris Administration: Kamala Harris would likely continue the current administration’s focus on reducing inflation and managing the deficit more cautiously. The Federal Reserve under this scenario may lean toward lowering rates, especially if inflation is under control, to stimulate economic growth and consumer spending. However, this would also depend on how effectively they manage inflation and debt levels.

Under a Trump Administration: If Donald Trump were to win, his policies could lead to higher interest rates. Trump’s proposals to extend and expand the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act could significantly increase the federal deficit, which might push up inflation and borrowing costs. A larger deficit typically leads to higher long-term interest rates due to the increased demand for borrowing by the government. Additionally, Trump’s protectionist trade policies, like tariffs, could increase inflationary pressures, which would likely lead the Fed to maintain higher interest rates to combat inflation​.

Historically, sectors like multifamily and industrial real estate have shown resilience in inflationary environments due to their ability to raise rents, but offices and retail sectors could face more pressure in a bad borrowing environment.

Environmental and Climate Regulations

Kamala Harris and Donald Trump propose vastly different policies on climate change, reflective of broader ideological divides. While Harris strongly supports addressing climate change through robust regulations and clean energy investments, Trump emphasizes deregulation, prioritizing economic growth through increased fossil fuel production.

Harris’ view:

• Harris helped pass the Inflation Reduction Act as Vice President, a major climate initiative that aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote renewable energy, and incentivize electric vehicle (EV) adoption. 
• Harris also backed the Green New Deal, a more progressive plan aimed at transitioning the U.S. to 100% clean energy while addressing social and economic inequities. 

CRE leaders should be aware that a Liberal government focused on environmental sustainability could introduce stricter regulations that affect the CRE industry. New policies on carbon emissions and energy efficiency standards may increase operational costs for developers and property managers. Yet, it would also provide opportunities for CRE leaders who invest in sustainable, green-certified buildings, as tenant demand for eco-friendly spaces continues to rise.

Trump’s view:

• Trump emphasizes deregulation while prioritizing economic growth through increased fossil fuel production. 
• His climate policies focus on bolstering oil, coal, and gas industries, with plans to repeal major portions of Biden’s climate initiatives, like the Inflation Reduction Act. Trump criticizes stringent environmental regulations as harmful to economic competitiveness and promises to dismantle “climate scams” that he claims cost the U.S. 

CRE owners should be aware that while Trump’s deregulation efforts aim to boost economic growth and housing availability, they pose significant risks to environmental protection. This could lead to increased pollution, habitat destruction, and a reluctance for the environmentally conscious to invest in deregulated areas.

Foreign Investment and Trade Policies

Election outcomes can have a profound effect on U.S. trade policies, which in turn influence foreign investment in CRE. A protectionist administration could impose tariffs and stricter immigration policies, potentially reducing foreign capital flows into U.S. real estate.

On the other hand, a government that promotes international trade and investment could see an increase in demand for U.S. commercial properties, particularly from global investors.

CRE leaders with portfolios exposed to foreign markets or reliant on international capital should monitor the election’s impact on global trade relationships, especially with major partners like China and the European Union.

While an increase in corporation tax may be offputting for foreign investment, it’s possible that a lack of environmental consciousness will be more offputting than many may think.

Focus on Long-Term Fundamentals

While the U.S. general election may introduce short-term market uncertainty, the CRE industry’s performance will largely depend on broader economic factors like interest rates, inflation, and employment trends. CRE leaders should remain focused on long-term fundamentals and be prepared for potential shifts in tax policies, interest rates and regulations that could influence their portfolios in the years to come.

The overall message for CRE leaders is to stay the course, monitor policy developments closely, and avoid reactionary moves based solely on election outcomes. As highlighted by CBRE, the real drivers of the industry- economic growth, interest rates, and investor confidence– are likely to be far more influential than the results of the 2024 election​.

Interested in learning how Mallcomm can transform your property? Speak to our team below

Retail crime is rising across the globe, driven by economic pressures and the perception that retail spaces are easy targets. Despite inflation easing from record highs, consumers continue to feel the strain, leading to an increase in both petty theft and organised retail crime (ORC). With the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, commercial real estate (CRE) owners and retailers are under immense pressure to protect their assets, employees, and customers from these growing threats.

The UK’s Retail Crime Crisis

In the UK, retail crime has reached worrying levels. According to the British Retail Consortium’s (BRC) Crime Survey 2024, shoplifting incidents doubled between 2023 and 2024, reaching 16.7 million cases. These thefts have cost UK retailers a staggering £1.8 billion. The Office of National Statistics also reported a 30% increase in retail crime, marking the highest levels seen in 20 years.

Beyond financial losses, the rise of ORC in the UK has led to increased violence against shop workers. The BRC reported that daily incidents of abuse and violence towards staff rose from 870 in 2023 to 1,300 in 2024. Much of this aggression comes from ORC groups, whose tactics have become more violent as they target high-value goods in coordinated thefts.

Retail Crime in the US, A Growing Threat

The situation in the US mirrors that of the UK. According to the National Retail Federation’s (NRF) Retail Security Survey 2023, over two-thirds of US retailers reported an increase in in-store violence related to ORC. Repeat offenders are becoming more aggressive, with 53% of retailers witnessing higher levels of violence from these groups. This trend shows no signs of slowing, with the 2024 data likely to reveal further escalation in both threats to inventory and staff safety.

What’s the Industries Response?

The UK’s Retail Crime Action Plan

In response to the surge in retail crime, the UK government launched the Retail Crime Action Plan in October 2023. This five-step plan introduced a new offence for assaulting retail workers and streamlined crime reporting, making it easier for retailers to share information with law enforcement. In July 2024, the government reinforced these efforts in the King’s Speech, highlighting the Crime and Policing Bill, which aims to cut serious violence in half within the next decade.

Additionally, the College of Policing (CoP) introduced the Crime Reduction Toolkit, which includes safety training videos for shop workers. These resources provide practical support to help retailers better manage security risks and protect their staff from rising threats.

How is the US Combating Organized Retail Crime?

In the US, the NRF has been actively lobbying for stronger laws to combat ORC. In 2023, the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act was introduced to Congress, aiming to classify retail theft as a federal felony. The bill also proposes the creation of an Organized Retail Crime Center, which would enable law enforcement agencies to collaborate more effectively in tackling ORC. More than 34 states have already passed laws targeting ORC, with California investing over $241.4 million to address these crimes.

What proactive measure can CRE owners introduce?

For CRE owners, rising retail crime presents both challenges and opportunities to implement proactive security measures and support their retail tenants. Addressing retail crime head-on is essential to maintaining tenant relationships and preventing further incidents.

Centralising Safety Guidelines

CRE owners can enhance security by centralising safety guidelines and protocols within operational platforms or apps. By sending training materials and updates via push notifications, they ensure tenants stay informed, with real-time updates and compliance tracking to maintain adherence to safety measures.

Sharing Information with Security Teams

Providing security teams with updated information on known offenders is crucial. Centralised apps can share images and profiles, enabling quicker responses to potential threats. Early recognition helps CRE owners strengthen their defence against retail crime.

Strengthening Police Cooperation

Cooperating with local law enforcement is essential for preventing retail crime. CRE owners can engage with initiatives like RILA, the NDAA, and programs such as the 2024 Store Walk Initiative to enhance crime prevention and information sharing.

Read Securing Spaces to Learn More

For a deeper dive into how CRE managers can protect their spaces from the threat of retail crime, there are no forms blocking you from reading the Securing Spaces Ebook. This guide offers expert insights from Knight Frank, Landsec and JLL, real life case studies following security threats and hurricanes, and step-by-step strategies for improving security in public spaces. Don’t wait for the unthinkable to happen-start preparing today.

In just one click, access your copy of our ‘Securing Spaces’ E-Book and discover how prepare your property for any eventuality.

As the global terror threat rises, it’s becoming increasingly crucial for Commercial Real Estate (CRE) Managers to have the right tools in place to secure their spaces and spread their protocols to all stakeholders with a presence in their space. In 2023 alone, global terrorism deaths rose by 22%-a worrying trend driven by rising tensions, political aggression, and ongoing international conflicts.

With the unpredictability Terrorism brings, property, operations and security managers must take any and every step possible to protect the people within. This blog explores the specific vulnerabilities of CRE properties, the importance of preparedness, and how to get started with robust counter-terrorism strategies. If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide, we highly recommend reading the Securing Spaces Ebook, which offers an in-depth look at the topic and practical advice on staying ahead of potential threats

Why the CRE Industry is a Prime Target

CRE spaces, such as shopping malls, restaurants, bars, and office buildings, are inherently vulnerable to terrorism due to their easy access and high footfall. 

In the UK alone, 15 domestic terror attacks have occurred since 2017, and authorities have disrupted 39 late-stage plots. Even in countries with strong counter-terrorism measures like the US, 16 attacks were recorded in 2023. Terrorists may target CRE spaces specifically because they are often seen as ‘soft targets’ with fewer security controls than governmental or highly fortified locations. 

While the stats are bleak, there’s a real opportunity for managers to champion the sharing of any and all security information to create a proactive culture within their community.

The Cost to the Industry

While there are ways to stay ahead of threats, the impact of an attack if it happens extends far beyond physical damage. There’s a profound economic toll that managers must consider. In the UK, the direct cost of the five terror attacks in 2017 was estimated at £171.8 million. This figure doesn’t even account for the long-term effects on property value, business disruption, and the emotional and psychological toll on tenants and the public.

By being proactive, managers can play a critical role in mitigating these impacts. Not only can they help protect lives, but they can also limit the financial and reputational damage that follows an attack.

Preparing for the Unexpected

As we’ve learnt from the two assassination attempts on Former President Trump this year, a swift and coordinated response can be the difference between life and death. By ensuring robust procedures are in place and accessible, with a community-led approach to reporting, CRE managers can mitigate the risks and protect both their properties and the people within them.

3 Strategies to help Secure your Space

1. Meticulously Oiled Processes: The key to minimizing chaos during an attack is having well-documented procedures in place, accessible to all Managers and Tenants within a few clicks. These should cover lockdown protocols, emergency evacuation plans, and communication strategies with both tenants and local law enforcement.

2. Regular Training and Drills: Ensure that all staff are well-trained to respond quickly in the event of an attack. Regular drills can help build muscle memory for these situations, allowing for faster, more coordinated responses when every second counts.

3. Implement Technology for Instant Alerts: Technology is now in place to send instant alerts to building occupants, connecting directly to law enforcement agencies while removing the need to source contact information first. These systems allow for faster decision-making and communication during an unfolding situation.

Read Securing Spaces to Learn More

For a deeper dive into how CRE managers can protect their spaces from the threat of terrorism, there are no forms blocking you from reading the Securing Spaces Ebook. This guide offers expert insights from Knight Frank, Landsec and JLL, real life case studies following security threats and hurricanes, and step-by-step strategies for improving security in public spaces. Don’t wait for the unthinkable to happen-start preparing today.

In just one click, access your copy of our ‘Securing Spaces’ E-Book and discover how prepare your property for any eventuality.

At Mallcomm, we understand that protecting communities is a top priority in the commercial real estate (CRE) industry. Properties that house multiple tenants face a range of unpredictable threats-spiralling retail crime, the looming threat of terrorism and the damage that extreme weather inflicts. That’s why we’ve created an e-book packed with expert advice to empower teams with the strategies that help best secure your CRE spaces. 

We believe it’s crucial for property managers to not only address these risks but to stay proactive wherever possible. Our e-book provides valuable insights on mitigating risks, reducing panic, and improving communication during crises, helping CRE managers maintain safe, trusted environments communities can rely on.

What you’ll learn 

We’ve gathered industry leaders from Landsec, JLL and Knight Frank as well as our own CEO David Fuller-Watts to answer the tough questions CRE managers face today. 

Securing CRE Spaces gives you the tools and knowledge to protect your assets, employees, and customers. 

Inside, you’ll discover:

• The top three threats every CRE space faces: rising retail crime, terrorism, and extreme weather.
• Effective incident response strategies, from managing real-time security risks to coordinating with police and security personnel.
• How technology can transform your security management- with insights into the role of communication and surveillance systems.
• Actionable steps for incident prevention and recovery, ensuring your property remains resilient, no matter the threat.

Why tech is your secret weapon

In today’s environment, relying on methods like paper memos or manual security checks don’t allow for successful incident responses. Modern threats require modern solutions. Our E-book discusses the role of cutting-edge technology that enables the CRE industry to react faster, mitigate risks, and safeguard tenants and visitors before incidents spiral out of control​.

This e-book isn’t just about identifying risks-it’s about empowering you with the knowledge and tools to stay one step ahead.

In just one click, access your copy of our ‘Securing Spaces’ E-Book and discover how prepare your property for any eventuality.

The State of Retail this Q4

While preparations for Q4 well are truly underway, we wanted to provide some last-minute quick wins that asset owners and operators can use to prepare for the most successful Golden Quarter possible.

While the consumer market was a tough watch in H1, coming into H2 we’ve seen UK inflation hitting the Bank of England’s 2% target, and interest rates coming down as predicted. As a result, Retail Economics’ Richard Lim, founder of the independent retail insights consultancy, has predicted Q4 2024 to be the most fruitful we’ve seen for several years. Here are some focus areas for the best golden quarter possible.

The Black Friday Experience

Yes, Black Friday still remains an online-first event for the retail industry, but in-store sales grew in 2023, with 44% of UK consumers purchasing a Black Friday deal in a physical location. A similar trend was recorded in the US, with shopper traffic to stores up 2-5% YoY. 

Yet, with the ever-increasing ease of online shopping, physical retail must look to where it can lean on cross-channel marketing to create a harmonised approach that encourages shoppers to come into their nearest stores this year. This can be done through geotargeting, personalised recommendations and community building. The incentive for the customer? The sensory experience.

Although online wish lists, early access to sales and VIP online shopping experiences all help build the hype for the sales season, none of these initiatives offer the ability for consumers to touch, see and smell the products on offer. As a result, quality assurance is difficult for consumers to get and as a result, retailers deal with more and more returns.

While brand communities exist online, there’s no denying that community is better nurtured face-to-face.

This year, retailers should be looking to the online experience to build the hype for physical events ahead of Black Friday to help those more mindful buyers to purchase during the sales period. These sensory events are the perfect way not only to build brand awareness but to get shoppers into their local stores to experience products in person. Whether they buy online in the sales or in-person, the retailer wins either way. Enabling this cohesive shopping experience through a unique brand collaboration, wellness or tasting experience will help the golden quarter boom this year.

Address the Eco-Anxiety 

Experience isn’t just a buzzword, and sustainability shouldn’t be either. There’s a reason brands have their reputation (and revenue) significantly damaged by greenwashing. It’s because consumers are showing all the signs of being more and more anxious about the environment. This has fed into their behaviour and it’s time to listen. With 52% of consumers feeling guilty about their effect on the environment, and 72% of consumers worrying those in power will never make the required changes, consumers are taking more and more steps to limit their impacts.

For shopping centres, this means that their eco-efforts need to be communicated and cohesive throughout every store. Many shopping centres have sustainability charters, but the question is: who knows about them? Communication is paramount to ensuring that sustainability is lived and breathed by each member of the community. From owners to operators, retailers to consumers; this cohesion is essential going into the Golden Quarter. For a great example of sustainability being front and centre, you can take a look at Liverpool One’s public commitments to the environment.

Look-back-and-learn

In every business model, one major part of success is learning from what went wrong. Just as it’s important to have accessible data, it’s important to carve out the time to get insights from the data. This look-back-and-learn approach may seem obvious, but so often teams throw themselves into planning without first analysing what was done before. Looking at past years’ sales data and expenses, conducting demand forecasting, contacting suppliers ahead of time, assessing staffing needs and preparing for after-sales services are good ways to ensure YoY growth.

It’s remarkable how we can forget the negatives so make sure you have access to a single source of truth that stores all the roadblocks your destination has faced in previous sales periods. Whether these were accessibility, maintenance, security or retailer-specific issues, preparing for every likely risk is something you won’t regret.

Digital Unity

While experience, sustainability, tight strategies, and data-led decisions are all key ways to bolster performance this Q4, there needs to be a way to house all of these initiatives under one unified solution to help reduce costs, decrease risk and increase revenue.

Integrations that make the online and offline journey easier are one thing, but it’s all about bespoke apps this 2024. Enterprise platforms that enable stakeholder cohesion in the shopping centre ecosystem exist, and they’re helping retail spaces innovate.

Whether you need updates on store locations and extended opening hours, accessibility information, security protocols or promotions and event information, shopping centre management can now lean on the app world in the same way consumers do.

For more information on seamless journeys for the shopping centre ecosystem, speak to the Mallcomm team today.

Mallcomm’s technology connects asset owners and operators to a property, bringing together operations, facilities, security, tenants and shoppers through a dedicated app and CRM platform.

The newly created role will support Mallcomm’s customers to understand the data currently being collected and support the development of industry benchmarks. Through the integration and combination of tenant, shopper and building data, Mallcomm is already supporting the creation of long term occupier and shopper relationships, providing actionable data and insights to the commercial real estate industry.

Bruce joins Mallcomm with over 20 years of operational experience in retail. He joins from British Land, where during his 12 year tenure, he implemented new methods of data acquisition and footfall analytics at Meadowhall, before expanding the data and insight programme across the British Land retail portfolio. Prior to that Bruce held various retail positions, including the head of retail at Republic, where he was responsible for the operation and performance of over 55 stores.

Meadowhall was one of Mallcomm’s first customers, with the platform supporting the implementation of the data and insight strategy at Meadowhall. British Land was one of the first owners to put a focus on digitalising the collection of sales data from retailers.

Mark Bruce, Data and Analytics Director at Mallcomm, commented: “Since my first interactions with Mallcomm over 11 years ago, I could see that the technology company was focused on solving real industry problems. Over the years we built a strong partnership, as we developed and executed on a powerful data strategy. I am excited to take this one step further, joining the team at Mallcomm.

Data is absolutely intrinsic to understanding a portfolio, especially as making the wrong decisions can cost time and money. There is a huge opportunity to help real estate companies to better understand the value of data, how to access it and how to use it. That is key to better retail performance, and I believe that Mallcomm is the perfect fit to empower their customers to be successful.”

David Fuller-Watts, CEO at Mallcomm, said: “At Mallcomm we’ve built our technology around our customers creating a strong partnership culture. It has enabled us to ensure that our platform grows with our customers’ needs, providing real solutions to navigate the evolving industry. Mark was an early adopter, understanding that the ability to acquire reliable data means that you can take action to reduce risk, reduce cost and ultimately enhance revenue. Having worked with him for over a decade, we are delighted to have him as part of our team, helping develop the strategies that will allow our customers to utilise data to spot, and act on opportunities for the future.”

Interested in learning how Mallcomm can transform your property? Speak to our team below