How changing customer expectations are reshaping retail property

Just announced 

The retail sector has always evolved alongside the people it serves. Today’s pace of change, however, is accelerating. Consumer expectations continue to shift, economic pressures are influencing spending habits, technology is changing how people discover and buy products, and our town centres and shopping precincts are expected to deliver richer, more engaging experiences.

For those responsible for owning, developing, leasing and managing New Zealand’s retail destinations, the challenges are becoming increasingly complex. Investment decisions carry greater scrutiny, leasing strategies are evolving, and retail assets are expected to deliver strong commercial performance while remaining vibrant, relevant and adaptable for years to come.

These are the conversations that will take centre stage at RECON 2026, as Property Council New Zealand brings together leading thinkers from across the retail sector to explore this year’s theme: Progress under Pressure.

We’re delighted to announce Juanita Neville-Te-Rito, Founder at RX Group, as the opening keynote speaker. Juanita will explore one of the biggest questions facing the industry today: how do changing customer behaviours influence the future performance of retail assets? 

Drawing on global trends, behavioural insights and place-making expertise, she’ll examine how six generations of consumers—and the different ways they choose to live, work, shop and connect—are influencing tenant mix, precinct design, dwell time and the long-term positioning of retail destinations.

For investors, developers, asset managers and leasing professionals, understanding customer behaviour has become an essential part of creating successful retail environments. Every decision—from leasing strategies and asset upgrades to destination planning—benefits from a deeper understanding of how people want to spend their time and why they choose one place over another.

As economic conditions continue to challenge the sector, every investment decision matters. Understanding where retail is heading provides greater confidence to make decisions that strengthen assets today while positioning them for long-term success.

That’s exactly what RECON is designed to deliver.

Bringing together owners, operators, developers, investors and advisors from across New Zealand, RECON creates space for the conversations that matter most. Attendees gain practical insights, hear real-world experiences and connect with industry leaders who are tackling many of the same challenges within their own portfolios and businesses.

Alongside a full day of keynote presentations, attendees will also experience exclusive site tours showcasing innovation in action, offering a first-hand look at retail environments that are responding to changing market conditions and evolving customer expectations.

In a year where every decision carries greater weight, RECON offers the opportunity to step away from the day-to-day, gain fresh perspective and return with practical ideas to help shape the future of your retail assets.

Secure your place at RECON 2026 and join the conversation shaping the future of retail property.

Register now → 

Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of the retail property industry’s most anticipated events.

RECON26 | Retail Conference 2026 - New Zealand International Convention Centre

29 October 2026 @ 07:45 am – 07:15 pm

Venue: New Zealand International Convention Centre

Member: $579.00
Non-Member: $799.00

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